Mental Wellness Exercises to Reduce Stress and Prevent Teeth Grinding

Do you often catch yourself grinding your teeth? Could you be doing it while sleeping? Excessive teeth grinding can wear down your enamel and contribute to gum recession, headaches, tooth loss, and damage to the jawline.

Most people who grind their teeth unconsciously do so at night, but it can also happen during the daytime. While scientists don’t fully understand what causes people to grind their teeth, stress can contribute to the problem. If you grind your teeth a lot and experience stress or anxiety, you can try several mindful exercises to get relief, improve your well-being, and minimize stress.

Meditation

Don’t let meditation intimidate you. It doesn’t have to be about reaching nirvana while balancing on one foot. Meditation can help you relax and feel comfortable in your own skin. During meditation, you can recognize your thoughts as they come and allow them to evaporate.

Find a place where you feel comfortable and won’t be disturbed. Put on some relaxing music or white noise. Light candles. Run a bath. Engage in some positive visualization. Breathe in and out and learn to be with yourself in the moment.

Nature’s Therapy

Being in the great outdoors relaxes most people. In fact, short walks in nature can significantly reduce stress, improve mood, and decrease your risk of mental health issues. Take a walk in the woods or to a nearby park, even if it’s just for 20 minutes every day. It will improve your outlook, reduce stress, and contribute to overall happiness.

Limit Social Media

Before bed, avoid TV, social media, and videos on digital devices. Excessively scrolling social media can fuel depression, anxiety, and loneliness. As you get ready for bed, put away your smartphone or tablet. Put on some relaxing music instead, curl into a good book, or take a relaxing bath.

Consider a Mouthguard at Night

If all else fails, consider wearing a mouthguard at night. This will prevent grinding, even if it doesn’t address your underlying stress. Your nearby family dentist can suggest some brands to look for at the pharmacy. They can also create a customized mouthguard formed from an impression of your teeth.

Safeguard Your Smile From Stress

Excessive stress affects all aspects of your physical well-being, including your dental health. If you have a problem with teeth grinding, the local oral health experts at Beckham Square Family Dental can help identify the underlying causes of your tooth grinding and recommend some solutions. They can also make sure you stay on top of your regular preventive care with exams and professional teeth cleanings close to home.