Are there alternative treatments for teeth grinding (bruxism)?

Teeth grinding can be caused not just by stress and anxiety but by sleep disorders, an abnormal bite or teeth that are missing or crooked. 

Many of the treatments for teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, do not include medications. Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. 

If stress is the cause you need to find a way to relax. Meditation, counseling and exercise can all help reduce stress and anxiety.

Many of the treatments used for teeth grinding are considered alternative treatments, as they are not medical or dental procedures and do not involve medication. Behavior modification is one form of treatment for teeth grinding. The goal is for the person to relearn how to hold their jaw, tongue, and teeth properly so as to not strain or clench the jaw joint and muscles. Biofeedback is another recommended treatment. This uses electronic sensors that indicate when a person is feeling stressed or anxious. The goal is to make the person aware of when they are straining the jaw and clenching the teeth so they are alerted to their stress levels and can react to decrease their anxiety.