If you’re receiving bruxism treatment, it’s very important to remember that the oral appliance you’re wearing isn’t the whole kit and caboodle. While it offers an exceptional amount of protection from grinding and clenching, it isn’t going to be able to offer the full treatment you require unless you take some possible bad habits into consideration. So, take some of our advice to ensure you’re working with … not against … your therapy.
Limit Your Caffeine
You won’t necessarily need to stop drinking your caffeinated beverage that you love. However, it might be time to limit how much you’re taking in on a daily basis. When you drink it, you’ll notice that it has stimulating effects (which will impact your muscles and can make bruxism worse). Skip too many coffees or tea breaks, so your bruxism treatment is more effective.
Avoid Unnecessary Chewing
What are you eating that you don’t need to be eating? When are you chewing that you don’t need to be chewing? The more you use those muscles, the more your body becomes trained to chew. As a result, you make grinding and clenching worse, thereby getting in the way of the progress you can expect from bruxism treatment. Here are some things to steer clear of:
- Chewing the ice in your drink (or eating it as a snack)
- Biting your nails
- Chewing gum
- Nibbling on objects like your pencil
Talk With Us
If you feel like you’re doing your best but you don’t seem to be experiencing the relief you want (or you simply have some questions), schedule a time to come in and talk with us. We are always happy to see you!
Help Promote Successful Bruxism Treatment
Keep your bruxism treatment on track by avoiding unnecessary habits that can slow it down. Contact Absolute Dental Care today to schedule a visit by calling (757) 428-7440. We proudly welcome patients Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hampton, Eastern Shore, and all surrounding communities.
