Clenching Jaw

[Overcoming]

Oh my goodness. I've been waking up with headaches, earaches, and major toothaches lately. I know that I tend to clench my jaw when I'm awake and when I notice it, I try to part my teeth. My husband told me that I click or chatter my teeth like a Halloween skeleton at night sometimes. Has anyone else dealt with this? What has been most helpful? :confused:

 

[EmmaOwl]

Yes... It's miserable and there's not much you can do. A nightguard can help keep your teeth healthy - you can try an over-the-counter one, or a fancy expensive one from a dentist. But you're still going to have a sore jaw. I've never heard it, but been told it's very loud, and I was almost shocked by all the scrapes on the guard I got! No wonder it's messing up my teeth. Another benefit might be - quieter/less disturbing for your husband.

But the pain, earaches, so on? Not much advice other than: "Do something relaxing before you go to bed."

Don't we all wish it worked that way! I do take a muscle relaxer at night; I suppose you could give that a try, but based on my own personal, non-professional experience, I don't advise it. I wake up with my whole body clenched up in pain, and as for the pills - I'm now feeling stuck on them, and I have another set of side effects. And I still grind my teeth. I'm sorry :( It can be terribly painful and disruptive to your sleep.

 

[Naoru]

Night guard (highly recommended before you crack teeth), place tongue to the roof of your mouth, other physical activities to de-stress, relaxing bedtime routine, and less caffeine intake (if applicable)

That is all I know. Not much one can do :tdown:

 

[VioletButterfly]

Yes, get one! I didn't because I didn't really understand what was going on. I'm now dealing with the aftermath. Very expensive and painful, and terrifying for me (dentist with drill! :eek:).