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Overcoming The Grind: 5 Simple Tips To Beat Bruxism And Save Your Teeth

25 January 2016

Diane Mason

If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), you may think it's just a harmless habit. However, when left untreated, bruxism causes teeth to become hypersensitive and prone to fractures. Fortunately, small changes go a long way to prevent the harmful effects of teeth grinding. Protect your teeth from bruxism by following the five tips below.

1. Consume More Magnesium

You likely know that stress causes muscle tension and consequent teeth grinding. But you may not realize that magnesium deficiency also leads to muscle tension and consequent teeth grinding.

According to the USDA, only 43 percent of the American population consumes adequate levels of magnesium. With that in mind, there is a good chance that you are deficient in this vital mineral—and it could be contributing to your teeth grinding.

Increase your magnesium intake by eating spinach, sunflower seeds, black beans, and other foods high in magnesium. Or, as an alternative to dietary changes, take a magnesium supplement daily.

2. Skip That Second Cup Of Coffee (And Other Caffeinated Beverages)

Caffeine is another common cause of muscle tension, which is known to worsen bruxism. To prevent nighttime teeth grinding, limit your caffeine consumption, and only drink coffee in the morning. In the afternoon and evening, switch to non-caffeinated beverages.

3. Avoid Covert Caffeine Sources

Coffee, energy drinks, and soda aren't the only sources of caffeine to avoid. Many other foods, supplements, and over-the-counter medications contain caffeine. Some common offenders are chocolate, weight-loss supplements, decaf coffee, and migraine pills. Always check the labels on these products to see how much caffeine they contain.

4. Say No To Alcohol And Cigarettes

The Bruxism Association states that both alcohol and cigarettes contribute to bruxism. Increases in teeth grinding have been observed in bruxism sufferers who have consumed alcohol. And cigarettes—with stimulatory effects similar to caffeine—can cause muscle tension and a noticeable increase in teeth grinding as well.

5. Use A Dental Night Guard

Nighttime teeth grinding, which occurs while you're asleep, is more problematic than daytime grinding. After all, it's hard to stop your body from performing a bad habit when you're not awake. Therefore, it's a good idea to use a dental guard at night to protect your teeth.

Bruxism is a serious problem, so use the tips above to protect your pearly whites. And if you suffer from nighttime teeth grinding, ask a dentist, such as Benjamin D Hull DDS, if a dental guard is right for you.  

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