Clenching teeth when sleeping?

Question

I was looking up questions about jaws hurting and I think mine hurts because I clench my teeth when I sleep. Is it basically biting nothing when ur sleeping? Because I think I do that..and I dont want my jaw to hurt anymore. But Im not sure how to stop or anything. My right jaw hurts alot and I cant open my mouth very wide cuz itll hurt.

Answer 1

If you are clenching then you cant stop yourself while your sleeping. Clenching is caused by stress and can be helped if A) you arent stressed and/or B) a night guard fitted by your dentist. However, I think some drug stores sell night guards now, they just arent fitted as well. But you should see your dentist to make sure you dont have TMJ.  

Answer 2

The best bet for you is to go to the dentist and let them make a retainer for you.

  Or you can buy a mouthguard at your local store.

Answer 3

there are things you can put in your mouth so you dont grind your teeth or bite, if you keep doing this, it will wear down your teeth. see your dentist.

Answer 4

You defiantly need to see your dentist on this one...There are things like mouth guards and such he can give you to put in your mouth to protect your teeth.  If you don't then you will wear your teeth down...

Good luck...  

Answer 5

My hubby has this problem.

Use a moist-heat pad on the area, and take up to 800 mg of ibuprofen (like motrin) for the pain. Try to position your jaw so it is held loose by your hand.

Also, make a conscious effort to not clench during the day.

There are mouth guards you can wear, but they are more for grinding the teeth at night.