Medicines for Jaw clenching

What it is

Jaw clenching is the habit of pressing or clamping the teeth and jaw together, often forcefully, and is a form of bruxism (which also includes grinding the teeth). It can happen during the day (awake bruxism), often unconsciously — for example when concentrating, stressed, anxious, or tense — or during sleep (which overlaps with teeth grinding). It is common, and stress and anxiety are frequent contributors, though other factors (such as bite problems, certain medicines, caffeine or alcohol, and lifestyle factors) can play a part. Many people are unaware they are doing it. Jaw clenching can cause a range of symptoms, particularly if frequent or forceful, including: aching or tight jaw muscles, jaw pain or stiffness, face or temple ache, headaches, earache, tooth pain or sensitivity, and, over time, wear or damage to the teeth. It can also contribute to problems with the jaw joint (temporomandibular disorder). While occasional clenching is usually harmless, frequent or forceful clenching can cause discomfort and dental damage, so it is worth addressing. The good news is that jaw clenching can usually be helped — through becoming aware of and reducing the habit, managing stress and tension (a common driver), and simple measures, along with dental advice and, where relevant, a protective device to reduce damage. Because it is often linked with stress, addressing the underlying tension is an important part of managing it.

How it is treated

Managing jaw clenching involves reducing the habit and the tension that drives it, protecting the teeth and jaw, and relieving symptoms. Helpful measures include: becoming aware of when you clench (for example noticing it during stress or concentration) and consciously relaxing the jaw — a useful tip is to keep the teeth slightly apart and the jaw relaxed when not eating (the teeth should only touch when eating), with the tongue resting behind the top teeth; managing stress and anxiety, which are common drivers, through relaxation techniques, activity, good sleep and other stress-management strategies; reducing caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute; and relieving jaw muscle tension with gentle jaw stretches, massage, and warmth. Seeing a dentist is important, as they can check for and manage dental effects, advise on the problem, and — particularly for night-time grinding and clenching — may provide a bite splint or mouthguard to wear at night, which protects the teeth and can ease the jaw muscles. Treating any contributing factors (such as bite problems) and simple pain relief for discomfort can help. If jaw clenching is causing significant jaw pain, headaches, or dental damage, or is linked with significant stress or anxiety, addressing these — including seeking help for stress or anxiety if needed — is worthwhile. The reassuring message is that jaw clenching is common and often linked to stress and tension, that it can usually be helped by becoming aware of and relaxing the jaw, managing stress, and dental measures (including a protective splint where relevant), and that support is available for the discomfort and for any underlying stress or anxiety.