Did you know that meditation is beneficial not only for your mental health but also for your physical health? This includes preventing teeth grinding. If you’re a teeth grinder who tends to do it during the day or unknowingly while sleeping, then this article is for you.
Bruxism or teeth grinding is a common problem that can result in tooth pain and even tooth decay. You might not know that you’ve been teeth grinding as this often occurs when you’re sleeping. However, you’ll experience symptoms like a sore jaw, constant headache, loose or painful teeth, and cracked or fractured teeth.
Teeth grinding can be caused by alcohol consumption, Parkinson’s disease, and medications. However, according to the American Dental Association (ADA) Health Policy Institute, teeth grinding and clenching are usually linked to stress. Identifying the root cause of teeth grinding won’t only help stop bruxism but also manage jaw pain, ear discomfort, and TMJ.
Teeth grinding is often caused by stress, and meditation is known to help manage stress. A 2010 study published in Psychiatry Research showed that eight weeks of mindfulness meditation can help change the brain structure. Regions that govern memory and learning saw an increase in brain cell volume. Then, brain cell volume in areas involved in regulating stress, fear, and anxiety was reduced. Results were in line with the participants’ reports on reduced stress levels.
Moreover, meditation is considered a simple and fast way to relieve stress. Bring your focus to a single subject or object. For instance, focus on your breathing. To meditate effectively, you might want to do it after waking up and right before you go to sleep to address teeth grinding. Doing so helps you stay more focused and prepare your mind and body for a successful rest.
While some individuals meditate for 20 minutes or even longer, you can start with one to two minutes, and do it twice a day. Moreover, don’t be too conscious about sitting in a perfect position. Instead, get comfortable and keep your focus on your breathing. The next thing you know, you’ll have already improved with some constant practice.
Aside from mindfulness meditation, there are other things you can do to help prevent teeth grinding. These include the following:
Teeth grinding is indeed a common problem that often results from stress. To help prevent teeth grinding, practice mindfulness meditation. Moreover, protect your teeth by wearing a reliable custom night guard.
At Remi, we offer top-quality custom night guards that give you maximum comfort and protection from teeth grinding. From custom night guards to night guard removal tools and teeth whitening kits, we have different items you may need to help protect your overall oral health. Visit our shop now for more options.
