Relax Your Bite: Stop Teeth Grinding with Bruxism Hypnosis Treatment

Do you grind your teeth? Tooth grinding, or Bruxism, is a common habit. A lot of people suffer from teeth grinding or clenching and do this while they’re asleep and many do it while they’re awake as well. It’s one of the classic examples of a person’s inner turmoil coming through in their physical habits.

There are plenty of reasons to stop grinding your teeth. Tooth grinding can be painful, and lead to TMJ (trans mandibular joint) syndrome, as well as tooth damage and enamel erosion. Anxiety, anger and stress could be playing such a large part in your daily life that you clench your jaw and grind your teeth without even realising it. Your dentist may be the one who alerts you to the problem.

The trained therapists at Bayside Psychotherapy have expertise in various treatment methodologies, including hypnotherapy, deep relaxation, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy and others. Seeking help to understand what is causing the suppressed emotions that lead to tooth grinding may be an effective way of stopping it.

Tooth Wear and Damage:

One of the most evident signs is damaged teeth or flattening of the teeth. If it is very severe you might also notice small fractures/chips in the enamel.

Jaw Pain or Tightness:

Waking up with sore jaw muscles, having a constant dull ache in the jaw can be a sign of grinding at night whilst sleeping.

Headaches:

Suffering from headaches in the morning, specifically around the temples, can be a sign.

Tooth Sensitivity:

If you notice increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, it could be due to the enamel wearing down from grinding.

Audible Grinding:

If a partner or family member has heard you grinding your teeth while sleeping, it’s a direct indication of bruxism.

Disrupted Sleep:

Bruxism can also cause a person to wake up during the night or experience unrestful sleep.

Locked Jaw or Limited Jaw Movement:

People who clench their teeth constantly may end up with limited jaw movement, making it hard to open or close the mouth. Jaw clenching can also lead to headaches.

Fatigue or Sleepiness:

Chronic disruption of sleep due to grinding might leave you feeling tired during the day. Sleep disorders may also develop.

Clicking or Popping Sound:

Hearing a clicking or popping sound in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be a sure sign of Bruxism. Listen out for the noise of teeth grinding.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

The root cause of teeth grinding isn’t always clear. However, it’s usually linked to stress, anxiety and sleep issues. Teeth grinding often happens either during sleep, stressful situations or while concentrating. Most people who grind their teeth and clench their jaws aren’t always aware they’re doing it as it doesn’t always cause symptoms. 

What happens if teeth grinding is left untreated?

Bruxism may lead to cracks or fractures of the teeth. Tooth enamel can wear away leading to tooth decay and even tooth loss. If it is not dealt with, it can even lead to jaw muscle and jaw joint problems.

How Long Does Bruxism Treatment Take? 

Some clients may find they’re able to get to the root cause of their bruxism problem remarkably quickly. For others, either the underlying psychological issues or the engrained physical habit may mean a longer course of treatment is indicated to maximise the chances of lasting change. Your willingness to commit to counselling will make a big difference to the duration and success of your treatment. Those who are able to overcome bruxism not only protect their teeth but often find that they cope better with anxiety and get a better night’s sleep.

Is grinding teeth a form of anxiety?

Awake bruxism can be caused by anxiety, stress, anger, frustration or tension. Grinding of the teeth can also be a coping strategy or a habit during deep concentration. Sleep-related chewing activity is often associated with arousals during sleep causing Sleep Bruxism.