With politics and the current COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to unclench your jaw. Throughout this year, the added stress and pressure we are feeling can lead to further complications with your health. However, many people don’t realize just how tightly their jaws are wound. This year, bruxism, or jaw clenching and teeth grinding, is likely on the rise.

Increased symptoms of clenching and grinding

While it is too early for research to confirm that teeth grinding and jaw clenching is on the rise, dentists across the country are confirming that they are seeing a lot of patients present with this. Bruxism is an increasing problem.

What patients are showing up with is increased symptoms of clenching and grinding that is far more prevalent than before. They are experiencing aching muscles, pain in the ear, tinnitus, cracked fillings and increased sensitivity to temperature and pressure.

The cause of increased jaw clenching

So what is the cause of this increase in teeth grinding and jaw clenching. Stress. We have said it before, it bears repeating. This year has been hard on all of us trying to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to these symptoms, we are finding that our patients are also experiencing headaches, broken crowns and cracked teeth. It all continues to point to the increased stress everyone is experiencing.

How dentists can help

This is where we can help. By identifying jaw clenching and teeth grinding, we can further help our patients. But the first thing is identifying that added stress our patients are feeling. From there, we can provide proper treatment for their symptoms. Whether that be an oral appliance or some other recommendation.

Throughout this pandemic, how have you been improving the care your patients need? Contact me to learn more and find other ways to continue to meet your patients’ growing needs.