To ask for help to STOP clenching my jaw

[1998em]

I've never spoken to anyone whose had this problem but I'm assuming there's other people who do it?

Basically I clench my jaw, not constantly but quite a lot of the time? And it gives me a terrible headache, by the time I have the headache I realise I'm doing it and stop, I think it's anxiety and stress related but even when I try and stop myself doing it I keep doing it ! I've given myself the most awful headache all day today from clenching my jaw, Im making a very conscious effort right now now to clench my jaw, when I sleep I try and sleep breathing through my mouth so i don't clench in my sleep but that never works, it's really starting to bother me but obviously it's not an issue I'm going to go to get the doctors about, does anyone know how I can maybe reduce the amount I do it ? This feels so silly but I'm sick of it and I can't seem to stop myself, thanks x

[SureIusedtobetaller]

I have a dental guard to stop me mashing my teeth as I clench at night. There are exercises too.
There’s a thing you can buy that goes in your ears too but it’s about £500.
See a dentist- lots of causes but they can help.

[DyingMachine]

I also do this and it's horrendous during my sleep. I also wake up with daily headaches and loads of neck pain.

Watching with interest!

[April2020mom]

Perhaps the dentist is in a better position to help. I recommend contacting your local dentistry clinic to make a appointment pronto with someone in the practice sooner rather than later. This is serious and requires immediate medical attention. Also maybe you should see a ENT doctor for another opinion.

[fanlight79]

I do this too intermittently and mine I've noticed is definitely stress related. Dentist can make a mouth guard to help. A friend's advice was to put the tip of your tongue between your teeth when you notice yourself doing it. Takes some focus but you can't grind your teeth with it there. Hope you find a solution soon.

[SpottedTiger]

I do this when I'm stressed, it's one of the first signs that I need to take action to stop my mental health taking a nose dive. Massage, relaxation exercises, mindfulness, meditation, sauna and hot tub all help. Basically reducing my stress levels and focusing on relaxation.

[ashoesandbagsbird]

I also do this and have done so for years. I have had a couple of mouthguards made as I managed to bite through one. They do help though but I also recommend physio for neck and back. There are specific physios who do specialise in the tempromandibular joint (TMJ) and they can offer exercises like the tongue behind teeth suggestion and massaging inside the mouth which does help. My physio also suggested a really hot flannel on the face and temples twice a day for about 10 mins to get some warmth into the muscles. I find this helps me before massaging. Less caffeine would also help if you drink lots but I would suggest you start with your GP. Good luck OP, you can crack it

[Wavingwhiledrowning]

I used to do this and had terrible headaches. I confessed to my dentist about it during a regular check up and they said I should get a dental guard. They can make them for you, but I got one on Amazon that you can mould yourself (much cheaper!). I used it for a few weeks and broke the habit (much to my amazement).

[PixieDust92]

Your doctor will send you straight to your dentist due to it being about your TMJ.
You need a nightguard as you're also damaging your teeth :(
The headaches will clear up.
If you have a NHS dentist the nightguard will be £256.50 and always have a nightguard by your dentist. It sounds expensive but in the long run it's a cheaper options then having to build your teeth back up which would only be covered on private :(.
I'm a dental nurse and we see this all the time x