Your Teeth Grinding Might Get Worse in the Winter – But We Can Help

As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, you may notice changes in your health and habits. One unpleasant change is an uptick in teeth grinding, or bruxism. This condition can lead to painful jaw issues, headaches, and even tooth damage. If you’re one of the many who grind their teeth, you may wonder why it happens more in the winter – and more important, what you can do about it.

Fortunately, Bridgetown Dental can help with a custom-made oral appliance. If you grind your teeth or have a painful jaw, call us today at 503-809-4742

In the meantime, read on to see the factors that contribute to increased teeth grinding during the colder months and how a custom-made TMJ appliance can offer relief and protection.

Why Teeth Grinding Might Get Worse in the Winter

There are several reasons why a teeth grinding problem can get worse in the winter months:

  • Stress and Holiday Pressures – The winter months can bring added stress. The holiday season often comes with a long list of to-dos, from shopping and hosting family gatherings to dealing with year-end work deadlines. For those already struggling with stress, these pressures can trigger or worsen teeth grinding. Grinding is a common response to stress.
  • Cold Weather and Muscle Tension – When the weather gets cold, the body tends to tighten up. Cold temperatures can cause your muscles to contract, including your jaw muscles, making it more likely for you to clench your teeth at night. Additionally, some people unknowingly tense their jaw muscles throughout the day to cope with the chill. This can lead to nighttime grinding as the body tries to relax.
  • Changes in Routine and Sleep Patterns – Winter often brings changes in routines. The lack of daylight and colder evenings can lead to altered sleep patterns or even disrupted sleep. Poor or inconsistent sleep is a significant factor in teeth grinding. When your body’s natural rhythms are thrown off, it leads to more clenching and grinding during sleep.
  • Caffeine and Comfort Foods – As winter sets in, many people reach for comforting hot drinks like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. While a cup of something warm can be soothing, it also means consuming more caffeine. This known stimulant can heighten anxiety and encourage teeth grinding. If you’re drinking more caffeinated beverages during the winter, you might be unintentionally making your grinding problem worse.

The Link Between Teeth Grinding & TMJ Disorders

Teeth grinding (bruxism) is often linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. The TMJ is the hinge joint that connects your jawbone to your skull, and it plays a crucial role in opening and closing your mouth. When you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, you put excessive strain on the TMJ. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and even permanent damage if left untreated.

What Are the Symptoms of a TMJ Disorder?

If your teeth grinding is contributing to a TMJ disorder, you may experience a range of symptoms, including:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Headaches
  • Clicking or popping sounds when you open your mouth
  • Limited jaw movement
  • Ear pain or ringing
  • Teeth sensitivity or wear

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or suspect that your teeth grinding is affecting your jaw, it’s important to seek help. Dr. Kaady can assess your bite, check for signs of TMJ disorders, and recommend the most effective treatment options to prevent further damage.

How a Custom-Made TMJ Appliance Can Help

If your teeth grinding worsens during the winter months, you’re not alone – and you don’t have to simply live with it. One of the most effective ways to address teeth grinding and protect your teeth is with a custom-made TMJ appliance. Here’s how a custom appliance, often called a night guard, can help:

  • Protection for Your Teeth – A night guard acts as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other during sleep. By distributing the force of grinding more evenly across your jaw, a night guard helps protect your teeth from wear and tear, cracks, or even more serious damage.
  • Relieving TMJ Pain and Tension – If your teeth grinding is accompanied by jaw pain or tension (common signs of TMJ disorder), a custom-made TMJ appliance can help reduce pressure on the jaw. An appliance repositions your bite and keeps your jaw in a more relaxed position. This lessens discomfort, reduces headaches, and prevents further strain on your temporomandibular joints.
  • Personalized for Comfort and Effectiveness – Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards that may be bulky and uncomfortable, a custom-made night guard is tailored to fit your unique dental structure. Your dentist will take precise impressions of your teeth and design an appliance that fits comfortably and securely. A well-fitting guard will help you sleep more soundly and reduce the likelihood of grinding.

Additional Tips for Preventing Teeth Grinding

While a custom TMJ appliance is a key part of managing teeth grinding, there are a few other strategies you can try to help reduce stress and muscle tension:

  • Practice Relaxation Techniques – Take time to unwind with stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Managing your stress throughout the day can significantly reduce the likelihood of teeth grinding at night.
  • Adjust Your Sleep Environment – Ensure that your sleep space is warm and comfortable. A cooler environment might make your muscles tense up more, so try adjusting the temperature or layering on blankets to stay cozy.
  • Limit Caffeine – Cutting back on caffeine, particularly in the late afternoon and evening, can help lower your overall stress levels and promote more restful sleep.
  • Stay Active – Regular physical activity is a great way to release pent-up tension and manage stress, especially during the colder months when you might be less inclined to get outside.

Whether it’s the stress of the season, the cold weather causing muscle tension, or disrupted sleep patterns, teeth grinding can worsen in winter. But don’t worry – a custom-made TMJ appliance offers an effective, comfortable solution to protect your teeth and relieve the discomfort associated with grinding.

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or visible signs of teeth damage, call Bridgetown Dental at 503-809-4742 for an appointment in Portland, OR. Early intervention is key to preventing more serious TMJ issues and preserving your dental health.