Do You Clench Your Teeth? Here's Some Advice On How to Relax Your Jaw

Do you wake up with pain in your jaw, suffer from persistent headaches, or have worn-down teeth? You might be experiencing bruxism — a condition in which you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth while sleeping. This habit can lead to serious dental issues, including damage to your molars and disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Long-term teeth clenching can lead to tooth damage that requires extensive restorative dentistry. Here at the office of Thomas Eaton, DDS, we want you to understand why you clench your teeth and how you can be a little easier on your jaw. 

Do you clench your teeth?

Many people clench their teeth without even realizing it. Reasons you may develop this habit include:

• Stress and anxiety
• Sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea
• Misaligned teeth
• Certain medications

If you’re unsure whether you are clenching your teeth, pay attention to how your jaw feels. Is it painful or stiff? Do you experience clicking or popping in the jaw joint? 

Other signs that you clench your teeth include frequent headaches, especially in the morning, and earaches with no present infection. You may also feel your teeth are worn down and sensitive. Clenching and grinding your teeth can also disrupt sleep, leading to daytime fatigue. 

Techniques to relax your jaw

If you clench your jaw, you can take control and ease the tension in your jaw with some simple strategies:

Massage your muscles

Gently massage your jaw with your fingertips, beginning at your temples and moving down to the jawline. Doing this multiple times daily can relieve muscle tension and enhance circulation.

Stretch

Open your mouth as wide as possible, then slowly close it. Repeating this motion can help release tightness in your jaw.

Strengthen your jaw 

Press your thumb lightly under your chin while opening your mouth. This resistance exercise strengthens and relaxes your jaw muscles.

Improve your posture

Poor posture — especially a forward head position — can contribute to jaw tension. Keep your head aligned over your shoulders to reduce unnecessary strain.

Adjust your workstation

An ergonomic setup can make a big difference if you spend hours at a desk. Ensure your computer screen is at eye level, and your chair provides proper support to maintain good posture.

How a dentist can help

If home remedies aren’t enough, it may be time to seek professional help. Dr. Eaton  may recommend:

Splints

These dental devices help reposition your jaw, reducing clenching.

Night Guards

Custom-fit mouthguards protect your teeth from grinding damage while you sleep.

Ultrasound therapy

This treatment can decrease inflammation and alleviate pain in your jaw muscles.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Managing stress with therapy can prevent you from taking it out on your teeth.

Lifestyle changes

Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol can reduce muscle tension. Stay hydrated to prevent muscle cramps. Regular exercise can lower stress and promote relaxation, benefiting your jaw. A consistent sleep schedule can help you unwind and reduce unconscious teeth grinding.

Protect Your Smile

If teeth clenching has already impacted your smile, don’t wait for further damage. Taking proactive steps now can prevent serious dental issues later on. Whether it’s self-care techniques or professional treatment, prioritizing jaw relaxation can lead to lasting relief and healthier teeth.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Eaton at the Ione, California, office today by calling 209-274-2429 or requesting an appointment online.