Jaw Clenching and cracking my night guard...

Why You Need a Night Guard Like, Ayer

First things first, a customized night guard is an absolute must if you’re dealing with teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Wearing a night guard creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing further damage, which can range from tiny cracks in your teeth, cracking your teeth, full-on jaw pain, and/or headaches. It’s like putting on armor before you go to bed—because even though your mind may be on some stressful stuff, your teeth don’t need to suffer for it.

Unlike those cheap, one-size-fits-all ones you might grab from the drugstore, a custom-fitted night guard (from your dentist) is molded to your teeth, so it’s comfier and does its job more effectively. You wouldn’t wear shoes that don’t fit, so why let your teeth grind against something that isn’t made for them? Trust me, this is a game-changer! While I did get my first night guard from my dentist, it was not cheap! It was not cheap and I made a crack in it, 3 to 4 months into having it. About a few months later, like now I just received my two new night guards via a small business company that is way cheaper, that I researched and I am happy with. I am not sponsored by them but happy with the results of my night guards. The company is called Remi.

Mental Health & Bruxism: The Real Connection

So what’s up with this connection between your mental health and your jaw acting like it’s bench-pressing in your sleep? Stress, anxiety, and unresolved tension are major players. When we’re stressed, we tend to carry that tension in our bodies, and for a lot of us, it’s in our jaws. That tightness often doesn’t go away just because we’re sleeping.

Here's the deal: our mind is powerful. Even when we’re unconscious, it can keep working through emotions and anxieties, which manifests physically—hola, clenched jaw! Some studies even suggest that people who suffer from anxiety or depression are more likely to deal with bruxism. If you’re out here grinding your teeth like there’s no tomorrow, it’s your body’s way of saying, “Hey, we need to deal with this stress!”

How To Deal With It: Protect Your Mental & Dental Health

Now that we know mental health can have your teeth grinding away at night, what can you do about it? Here are some tips to help you protect those pearly whites and address the underlying causes.

1. Get a Custom Night Guard (Yes, I’m Saying It Again)

We already covered this, but seriously—don’t sleep on this step. It’s the first line of defense and can prevent long-term damage while you work on managing stress. And again, I just got mine at the age of 35 because I didn't know I had this issue...

2. Consider Muscle Relaxers

Sometimes, your muscles just need a little help to chill out. If your jaw feels tense or you’re waking up with headaches, your doctor may suggest a muscle relaxer before bed. These can help loosen up those tight jaw muscles, so you’re not clenching in your sleep. But remember, consult with your doctor first to make sure it’s the right move for you. I personally only use these sparingly, as they can be addicting, so I leave them for when I really need them, again, consult your primary care doctor.

3. Stress Management Techniques

Because the root of bruxism is often psychological, addressing your mental health is key. Here are a few ideas:

• Meditation and Deep Breathing: Practicing mindfulness before bed can help ease the anxiety that might be causing you to grind.

• Exercise: Physical movement is a proven stress-buster, and getting those endorphins flowing can help take the edge off your anxiety.

• Journaling: If your mind is racing, try writing down what’s stressing you out before bed. Sometimes just getting it on paper helps your brain stop obsessing over it.

  
  

4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

For people dealing with chronic stress or anxiety, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be incredibly helpful. It’s a type of therapy that helps you identify and manage negative thought patterns that might be contributing to your stress (and jaw tension). It’s like mental exercise to retrain your brain into handling stress differently.

5. Check Your Diet

Certain substances can make bruxism worse. Things like caffeine, alcohol, and sugar can keep your nervous system activated, making it harder for your body to relax—yes, even when you’re asleep. Try reducing these, especially before bed, and see if that makes a difference.

6. Create a Calming Bedtime Routine

Creating a chill vibe before you hit the sheets is a good way to prep your mind and body for restful sleep. Essential oils like lavender, a warm bath, or some light stretching can all help release that pent-up tension. The goal is to make bedtime the ultimate relaxation zone, so your jaw doesn’t feel the need to join a grind-off. I personally don't care for lavender, I use eucalyptus, if lavernder doesn't work try eucalyptus, give it a shot.

Final Thoughts: Addressing the Mind-Body Connection

Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw while you sleep might seem like just a dental issue, but it’s often a signal that something else is going on—something deeper that’s linked to your mental health.

While a night guard is an excellent first step in protecting your teeth, don’t forget to explore ways to manage stress, whether that’s through muscle relaxers, therapy, or lifestyle changes.

Your mental health and your physical health are intertwined, and sometimes your body sends you signals in unexpected ways—like turning your jaw into a workout machine overnight. So take care of yourself, inside and out!

Feel free to drop any questions in the comments or share what’s helped you manage bruxism!

Gracias