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Home Patient Info Dental Blog How Clenching Can Fracture Your Teeth

How Clenching Can Fracture Your Teeth


Posted on 10/15/2024 by Lemond Hunter
A 3D rendering of a cracked toothDo you ever find yourself grinding or clenching your teeth? Many people do this unconsciously, especially during stressful times. While occasional clenching is normal, chronic clenching can lead to serious problems, including fractured teeth.

What is teeth clenching?


Teeth clenching is when you press your upper and lower teeth together with excessive force. This can happen during the day or at night, and you may not even be aware that you're doing it.

What causes teeth clenching?


There are many factors that can contribute to teeth clenching, including:

•  Stress: This is the most common cause of teeth clenching. When you're feeling stressed, your body naturally tenses up, and this can include your jaw muscles.
•  Anxiety: Similar to stress, anxiety can also cause you to clench your teeth.
•  Sleep disorders: Sleep disorders like sleep apnea can cause you to clench your teeth at night.
•  Certain medications: Some medications can have side effects that include teeth clenching.
•  Tobacco use: Nicotine is a stimulant that can cause teeth clenching.
•  Alcohol use: Alcohol can also cause teeth clenching, especially when consumed in large amounts.

What are the risks of teeth clenching?


Chronic teeth clenching can lead to a number of problems, including:

•  Headaches: The constant pressure from clenching can cause tension headaches.
•  Jaw pain: Clenching can put a lot of stress on your jaw joint, which can lead to pain and discomfort.
•  Earaches: The muscles involved in clenching are also involved in hearing, so clenching can sometimes cause earaches.
•  Face pain: The muscles involved in clenching are also involved in facial expressions, so clenching can sometimes cause facial pain.
•  Teeth wear: Clenching can wear down the enamel on your teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities and fractures.
•  Teeth fractures: Clenching can put a lot of pressure on your teeth, which can cause them to crack or break.

How can I prevent teeth clenching?


There are a number of things you can do to prevent teeth clenching, including:

•  Manage stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
•  Relax your jaw: Throughout the day, be mindful of your jaw and make a conscious effort to relax it.
•  Wear a mouth guard: If you clench your teeth at night, wearing a mouth guard can help protect your teeth from damage.
•  See your dentist: If you think you may be clenching your teeth, see your dentist. They can help you identify the cause of your clenching and recommend treatment options.

What are the treatment options for teeth clenching?


Treatment for teeth clenching will depend on the severity of the problem and the underlying cause. Some common treatment options include:

•  Stress management: If stress is a major factor in your teeth clenching, your dentist may recommend stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises or therapy.
•  Mouth guard: A mouth guard can be worn at night to protect your teeth from damage caused by clenching.
•  Botox injections: Botox injections can be used to relax the muscles in your jaw, which can help reduce clenching.
•  Restorative dentistry: If your teeth have been damaged by clenching, your dentist may recommend restorative dentistry procedures such as crowns or fillings.

Teeth clenching is a common problem that can lead to a number of dental problems, including fractured teeth. If you think you may be clenching your teeth, see your dentist for an evaluation. There are a number of treatment options available that can help you stop clenching and protect your teeth from damage.


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