I, too, am a perpetual jaw clencher, and its not just a nighttime issue either.
Ive noticed I do it the most while Im in the flow writing or doing something that requires concentration.
So basically, I clench my jawa lot.
Maybe you’ve got the option to relate.
Either way, it sucks.
And whats more, teeth grinding and jaw clenching changes your face shape.
Chris Salierno, DDS, is a dentist and chief dental officer for Tend, a chain of modern dental studios.
Keep scrolling to learn how it happens, and most importantly, how to prevent it.
Long before you notice any facial change, though, there are other adverse effects of this pesky habit.
For one, theres the discomfort.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
The silver lining is that the face shape changes because of teeth grinding and clenching can be improved.
However, Dr. Salierno says it requires a lot of dental work.
The challenge in these cases is that often the entire mouth has to be rehabilitated.
In other words, its not an ideal scenario, but it can be done.
That said, Dr. Salierno cautions that itll still be challenging.
The key is being mindful of what your mouth is doing throughout the day.
If they are, you may subconsciously start clenching or grinding.
To help, he offers the mantra lips together, teeth apart to remind you to unclench your jaw.
Its not the sexiest look, for sure, but your face is worth it.
Though cheaper than a custom one, an over-the-counter night guard wont cut it.
Botox is another option since it helps relax the jaw muscles.
Some patients benefit from injections into their larger chewing muscles, Dr. Salierno says.
Its not a permanent effect, but it can give great relief for months.
Protect your precious face shape by unclenching your jaw and rocking a night guard at bedtime.
Also, investing ina tension-reducing jaw massage toolor giving yourself anacupressure massagecertainly wont hurt.
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