How can I stop clenching my teeth without the help of orthopedic accessories, i.e : retainers?

Question

I am not really sure if I clench when I'm asleep, but I seem to be starting to do it unconsiously through out the day.

Answer 1

Using a mouthguard at night is usually the way to treat nighttime clenching since you can't consciously control it. You can get an inexpensive sports mouth guard to try before getting a custom guard. If you are clenching during the day, keep a pencil between your teeth. I'll do this sometimes and it is soft enough (the orange part, not the point) to not damage the teeth but enough to remind you that you are doing it and help you stop. It is usually stress related. Good luck!

JAMRDH - a dental hygienist

Answer 2

if you are looking for a night time fix, go to the pharmacy and buy a do it yourself mouth guard kit. These kits are relatively inexpensive (about 30 bucks). The only problem that i found with them was that the guard tends to be quite bulky, and it may cause you to gag. If this happens, try wearing it at home during the day to get used to having it in your mouth, and remember to breathe through your nose. The other problem that i had was that i would loose mine during the night, so it was not very effective. I personally would suggest getting one made by your dentist. If you have any sort of dental insurance, they may cover it, even if they do not cover braces, otherwise you are looking at a bill of approx. $300.
For during the day, the easiest thing to do is to place your tongue on the roof of your mouth, just behind your teeth, and flatten it out. By doing this, you place your tongue ina position that will prevent you from clenching your teeth together.

Answer 3

They actually sell teeth guards in the stores now. I was just in Target yesterday and I noticed they have a selection for people that clench teeth. The only thing is, I don't know if you are referring to when you are sleeping or all of the time.

Answer 4

One of the things I have been studying lately is what is called body syndromes. This is body problems that express emotional problems. Teeth clinching is stopping yourself from expressing yourself. Is there a family member, boss, friend, spouse that you have to "keep your mouth shut" around? Try writing that person a letter expressing everything you would be afraid to say face to face. Don't hold anything back. Use bad language if that is what you feel. Then burn the letter.