What To Do About Clenching Your Teeth

In our clinic we approach this parafunctional habit with manual therapy using myofascial and myofunctional techniques, and gentle joint mobilization which helps patients feel better, and usually leads to less clenching. The other important component is addressing lifestyle factors. Read below for our best recommendations.

🦷 Sleep matters. It’s essential for healing. Get 8 hours of quality sleep. Make it a priority.

🦷 Resting Tongue Posture: tongue lightly suctioned to the roof of your mouth, teeth never touching, lips lightly sealed. Unless you’re chewing, swallowing or talking, maintain this posture.

🦷 Do your soft tissue rehabilitation exercises prescribed by me! Daily. Consistency is key.

🦷 Commit to your suggested treatment plan. One session won’t heal your jaw.

🦷 Stress management. Adopt relaxation techniques you align with. We tend to hold stress in our jaw.

🦷 Take Magnesium. Stress depletes the body of this mineral. This supplement helps regulate your nervous system, relaxes your body and will help with sleep.

🦷 Drink more water. Aim for half your body weight in pounds in ounces per day. Add electrolytes.

🦷 Posture matters. Avoid a forward head tilt (which causes more clenching), and sleep on your side.

🦷 Wear your night guard to protect your teeth. If you feel it encourages more clenching, or worsens your symptoms, consult with your dentist.