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How a chiropractor can help stop teeth grinding

Have you noticed that you wake up with a sore jaw, facial or tooth pain? You might be grinding your teeth while you sleep. This condition is usually common in kids. However, adults may have this condition without knowing it. It is estimated that 10 percent of people grind their teeth while they sleep.

If you have discovered from your recent dentist visit that you are part of this percentage, it is time to see a chiropractor. Before starting your search for a chiropractor near you, check out how exactly a chiropractor can help you to stop grinding your teeth.

What exactly is teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding is also known as bruxism. This condition causes a person to grind and clench their teeth during the day or night. If the person grinds or clenches their teeth during the night, it is called sleep bruxism. However, if the individual grinds or clenches their teeth during the day, it is called awake bruxism

The known causes of teeth grinding

The trigger of teeth grinding is different in each individual. Finding your main cause of teeth grinding can help you get treatment. The leading known reasons for teeth grinding are genetics, sleep disorders, emotional state and medications. 

There is evidence that states that teeth grinding runs in the family. So if your mother, father or grandparent grinds their teeth, there is an increased chance you also grind yours. 

Do you have a sleep disorder? You also have a chance of grinding your teeth at night. So, if you have sleep apnea or snore at night, you might want to talk to a dentist.

One of the common reasons why people grind their teeth is their emotional well-being. If you are stressed, anxious or angry, you could grind your teeth as a way to cope. However, grinding your teeth may also be a side effect of your medication. Some medications that are known to cause bruxism include antipsychotics and antidepressants. 

Signs that you grind your teeth

  • Facial pains 

  • Headaches

  • Earaches 

  • Jaw discomfort

  • Worn-down teeth

  • Broken teeth and fillings 

  • Tooth sensitivity or pain

How a chiropractor can help you stop your teeth grinding

The first step to fixing your teeth grinding problem is seeing a dentist. This health professional can diagnose you. Once you have been fully diagnosed with bruxism and have created a treatment plan, then see a chiropractor. A chiropractor will help you stop your teeth from grinding at night by addressing the underlying issue. 

In the case of most people, the cause of teeth grinding is a sleep disorder or stress. A chiropractor near you can address both these issues by creating a treatment plan that can help you sleep better and help reduce your anxiety and stress levels. Plus, a chiropractor can also provide you with jaw exercises to help relax and strengthen your jaw muscles. 

Are you looking for a chiropractor near you?

Check out Wisniewski Chiropractic! Dr. Wisniewski is a chiropractor who provides spinal and extremity manipulations that can help improve your physical and emotional well-being. Schedule your appointment today to see the difference.