Can Grind the Teeth Trigger Headaches or Neck Pain?
Can Grind the Teeth Trigger Headaches or Neck Pain?
Blog Article
Bruxism is the habit of grinding teeth. This is a common problem that almost everybody has experienced, sometimes even unconsciously. While a few grind occasionally, it does not do serious damage. In contrast, continuous grinding for whatever reason or severe grinding causes several dental and medical problems, such as headaches and neck pain. When one understands the relationship between these symptoms and bruxism, they will be able to find the appropriate solution.
Headaches and Neck Pains Caused by Grinding of Teeth
✔ Muscle Strain – Grinding teeth puts excess strain on the muscle of the jaw which leads to developing tension headache and pain radiating to the neck and the shoulders.
✔ Jaw Misalignment: Continuous grinding may shift your jaw misaligned from the actual position, resulting in painful areas such as neck, head, and even under the jaw.
✔ Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) - One of the major causes of the TMD is bruxism, which also causes headaches, ear pain, and stiffness of the neck.
✔ Nerve Irritation - The jaw nerves are closely related to the head and neck. Over grinding may overstimulate these nerves, causing pain and discomfort.
✔ Increased Stress and Tension-Bruxism occurring due to stress creates tight-jaw muscles resulting in tension headaches and stiffness in the neck.
Symptoms That One Should Look Out For
Consultation should now be maintained with the professional if any of these symptoms arise together with teeth grinding:
???? Frequent headaches, particularly in the morning
???? Pain or stiffness in the jaw, neck, or shoulders
???? Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
???? Worn down, chipped, or sensitive teeth
???? Difficulty in opening and closing the mouth
Ways to Manage Teeth Grinding Pain Prevention
✔ Using a Nightguard – A well-fitted mouthguard should be utilized during sleep, which can protect teeth from wearing down and minimize grinding pressure.
✔ Stress Management- Meditates, breathes deeply, and practice yoga, for example, to ease the stress-induced bruxism.
✔ Improving your Sleep Habits-Make it a point to sleep well and prevent caffeinated or alcoholic beverages just before bedtime.
✔ Exercises in Jaw Relaxation-Massaging and stretching your jaw muscles should help relieve some tension and may even prevent discomfort.
✔ Don't Chew Nonfood Items- Chewing pens and fingernails too much can bite gum excessively, making the condition worse.
If the grinding of teeth leads to headache or neck pain, one should immediately see a professional. Smile Again Dental Clinic offers all the services provided by a qualified dentist in treatment and diagnosis of bruxism. If it is not available in one's locality, one can go for the Best Dentist Mumbai as they can be relied on for the treatment at their Best Personalized for ones pain and oral health.