Bruxism – Teeth Grinding

Bruxism is the medical term for grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw.

People sometimes grind their teeth without it causing any symptoms or problems. But regular, persistent teeth grinding can cause jaw pain and discomfort and wear down your teeth. It can also cause headaches and earache.

This can cause discomfort when singing, and is often the result of stress.

There are many options for treating the underlying cause of the stress or anxiety, to stop grinding your teeth in the long term. These include medication, behavioural therapies such as mouth guards, and talking therapies such as counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy. If you wish to find out more about treating Bruxism on the NHS website here.

A more gentle approach can also help you relieve the tension caused by Bruxism, such as progressive muscle relaxation. Try this audio below to help you through progressive muscle relaxation for the first time.

Categorised in: Choir, Health and Wellbeing, Singing