Is there anything I can do to stop grinding my teeth? - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

Halls · 12-07-2007, 01:46 PM

I just can't take it anymore! A splint makes me worse so I will never go that route again.

I try and destress before bed. It doesn't matter. I just grind no matter what than I am in pain all day long afterwards. I am worn out. I just want to stop.

Any ideas or tips to stop this horrible habit that is wearing me down?

sunshine123 · 12-07-2007, 09:26 PM

Have you tried a muscle relaxer? I wear a splint, take a low dose Xanax and a Flexeril before bed. Those help my muscles relax and help me fall asleep.

sunshine123 · 12-07-2007, 09:27 PM

I forgot to tell you that I also have Acupuncture once a week. That helps a lot.

pipdog · 12-08-2007, 02:56 AM

What kind of splint are you wearing?

The dentist treating me for TMD believes that griding is caused by sub-consciously trying to find the right bite and if that is sorted then the grinding will stop. Hmmm...

Before I had all the typical wear patterns on my teeth. Since wearing the splint and having the adjustments to even out the bite there are no signs of wear on the splint so maybe he is right.

loudawg · 12-08-2007, 01:14 PM

There's also a theory out there that grinding may be related to sleep apnea. The idea is that when you are grinding you are actually trying to position the airway to be more optimal. If you are tired throughout the day, fall asleep easily on the couch, fall asleep easily after lunch or if you snore loudly you may want to look more into this idea.

I think my TMJ is related to my grinding also and plan on trying one of those headband devices (grind alert) that wakes you up when you start grinding or clenching. I've read mixed reviews though and that makes me hesitant to sink another two hundred dollars into another dead end.

-Loudawg