Reasons why individuals Grind Clench their teeth and how it can lead to TMJ Disorder

Are you suffering from pain in your temporomandibular joint? Your TMJ disorder can be helped with treatment from a local dentist. Patients in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, have been getting effective treatment from Dr. Yolanda Cintron and the team at Go Natural Dentistry.

Everybody will clench their jaws or grind their teeth from time to time. When this becomes a chronic issue, it can lead to long-term problems with your temporomandibular joint. Your dentist can work with you on developing a plan to relieve pain and discomfort caused by TMJ issues but understanding why you are clenching or grinding in the first place could help you reduce how often you are doing this. Here are some reasons you could be clenching or grinding.

Stress/Anxiety

It may come as no surprise, but you may unknowingly clench your jaw or grind your teeth when you feel stress or anxiety. That can happen both when you are awake and when you are fast asleep. Studies show that as much as 70% of the population grind their teeth due to stress. And this can be exacerbated by medications that may elevate your anxiety or work environments that have you constantly on edge. You may be able to relieve some of this stress and anxiety with simple relaxation or meditation techniques, massage therapy, craniosacral massages and a mouthguard. .

Caffeine

Consuming caffeine, especially before bedtime, can lead to teeth clenching while asleep. When you look at the science behind how caffeine affects your body, it makes total sense. Consuming caffeine will result in an elevation of energy and heart rate, leading to poor sleep and the grinding of your teeth. The fix here is easy. Minimize caffeine consumption after 3 pm (your local time) and switch to decaf if you must have an afternoon cup of coffee. Of course, sticking to water is the best option as it offers your body many health benefits on top of it not having any caffeine.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders, including chronic snoring or obstructive sleep apnea, are the leading cause of nighttime teeth grinding or jaw clenching. These conditions result in frequent disruptions while you sleep and teeth grinding while you are asleep. Did you know that somebody with sleep apnea can have their sleep interrupted over 100 times nightly?Sleep Apnea is on the rise in the aging population on people over 40 yrs old and  with more baby boomers we are seeing an increase of pts with sleep apnea . When untreated it can cost you your life. 

If you or anyone you know is dealing with TMJ issues brought on by bruxism (chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching), please reach out to a local dentist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, today. Dr. Yolanda Cintron and the team at Go Natural Dentistry would love to see you. To schedule an appointment today, please call (855) 381-6001.

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