It's Saturday, you didn't have to set the alarm today, you get out of bed and yet you feel like you haven't rested. Sometimes we wake up with a certain headache or exhaustion and we don't quite know why. If you've ever noticed this sensation, you might suffer from bruxism, which means you grind your teeth or clench your jaw unconsciously. Although it usually occurs during sleep, it can also happen during the day in stressful situations.

At Microdental Clinic in Mojacar, we see many patients with this condition. The good news is that there are effective solutions. Here are six essential tips to combat bruxism:

1. Identify the underlying causes

Understanding why you grind your teeth is the first step to solving the problem. Common causes include:

• Stress and anxiety: The most frequent triggers
• Sleep disorders: Sleep apnea, snoring, or restless sleep
• Dental misalignment: Improper bite or missing teeth
• Lifestyle factors: Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco use
• Medications: Some antidepressants and other drugs

2. Use a custom night guard

A professionally made night guard is the gold standard treatment. Unlike over-the-counter options, custom guards from your dentist:

• Fit perfectly to your teeth
• Provide optimal protection
• Last longer and are more comfortable
• Can be adjusted as needed

3. Manage stress effectively

Since stress is a major trigger, learning to manage it is crucial:

• Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, yoga
• Regular exercise: Helps release tension and improve sleep
• Establish a bedtime routine: Wind down before sleep
• Consider therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy can help with anxiety

4. Improve sleep hygiene

Better sleep quality often reduces bruxism:

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule
• Avoid screens before bed
• Keep your bedroom cool and dark
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening
• Consider a sleep study if you suspect sleep apnea

5. Practice jaw exercises and massage

Specific exercises can help relax jaw muscles:

• Jaw stretches: Open mouth wide, hold for 5 seconds, repeat 10 times
• Resistance exercises: Place thumb under chin, open mouth against resistance
• Massage: Gently massage temples and jaw muscles in circular motions
• Apply heat: Warm compress on jaw muscles before bed

6. Make lifestyle adjustments

Small changes can make a big difference:

• Avoid chewing gum and hard foods
• Don't chew on pens or pencils
• Stay hydrated throughout the day
• Be mindful of jaw clenching during the day
• Position your tongue between your teeth when you notice clenching

Professional treatment at Microdental Clinic

If bruxism persists despite these measures, we offer advanced treatments:

• Digital scanning for precise night guard fabrication
• Bite adjustment (occlusal equilibration)
• Botox injections for severe cases
• Comprehensive TMJ treatment
• Restorative work for damaged teeth

Don't let bruxism damage your teeth and quality of life. Schedule a consultation at Microdental Clinic for a personalized treatment plan. Early intervention prevents costly dental repairs and chronic pain.