Nassau Standard

Michelle Sands, Sleep Apnea Director at Silent Night Therapy, said that there is a deep connection between stress and teeth grinding.

Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding or jaw clenching, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it can occur during the day, many people experience it unconsciously at night, which often leads to significant dental and health issues. 

“But what drives this harmful habit? One of the main contributors is stress, an increasingly common factor in modern life,” Sands told the Nassau Standard. “Some are too used to being stressed. It’s even normal that people say they’re too stressed out. The thing is, it’s not normal and it comes with problems, especially when sleeping.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, chronic stress can manifest physically, with bruxism being one of the most notable symptoms. Individuals under constant pressure may unconsciously clench their jaw or grind their teeth as a coping mechanism. This behavior can happen both while awake and asleep, though sleep bruxism is more difficult to control. Experts believe this stress response is related to the body’s fight-or-flight reaction, which causes muscle tension, including in the jaw, leading to teeth grinding.

“If left untreated, bruxism can lead to various dental and health problems,” said Sands. “Constant teeth grinding wears down enamel, increases the risk of cavities, and can even result in cracked or fractured teeth”. Additionally, Director Sands said it may cause headaches, earaches, jaw pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which affect the muscles and joints responsible for moving the jaw.

According to Dentistry IQ, managing stress is crucial for reducing bruxism symptoms. Stress management techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and physical activity can help lower stress levels. In some cases, using a night guard to protect teeth from grinding at night may be recommended by dentists. Seeking professional support through therapy or stress management coaching can also be highly beneficial for long-term relief

“Stress is not normal and it can deeply affect the quality of sleep,” said Sands. 

According to the Silent Night Therapy website, Michelle Sands became part of the practice in 2011, bringing over 25 years of expertise as a Registered Dental Hygienist. She now serves as the Sleep Apnea Director, focusing on a holistic strategy for treating sleep apnea.