Looking for advice
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for advice from people who have dealt with chronic teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night.
I’ve been actively noticing my teeth grinding for around 3 years. I often wake up with significant jaw tension/pain and headaches, and I frequently feel unrefreshed in the morning.
Some relevant background:
● I have a diagnosed crossbite, although my dentist says it’s impossible to say whether this is actually causing the bruxism.
● I already use a night guard. My dentist basically told me that, from his perspective, the main options are the guard and physiotherapy.
● I’ve done physiotherapy for the jaw/neck area.
● I sometimes have significant jaw tension even during the day.
● I have a deviated nasal septum and my nasal passages tend to become more congested when I lie down. During the day, nasal breathing is generally fine.
● I sometimes wake up with a dry mouth or mucus in my throat, so I suspect I may breathe through my mouth during sleep.
● I previously had a sleep apnea test, which was negative.
● I exercise regularly and am otherwise healthy/fit.
● I’ve also tried magnesium, but I’m not convinced it has made a noticeable difference.
I’ve seen several dentists already, including someone specializing in CMD, but I keep getting to the same point: night guard + physiotherapy, without much improvement.
I’m not looking for pseudoscientific treatments such as unsupported bite/jaw correction concepts. I’m specifically interested in evidence-based approaches.
For those of you who have dealt with severe bruxism:
What actually helped you?
Did anyone find a specialist, clinic, treatment, therapy, sleep-related intervention, etc. that made a meaningful difference?
I’d especially appreciate experiences with things beyond the standard “get a night guard and reduce stress” advice.
Thanks!