Jane Wagner | 05/29/2009 8:30 am
Jane Wagner on Why Jaw Tension Is the Worst
In response to: We learned that night-guard sales are on the rise, as teeth grinding is becoming more common. Where do you carry your stress?
I have tension in my jaws and some in my shoulders. You can release tension in your shoulders through massage and exercise but it seems harder to release tension around your jaws.
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Hi, Jane.
My tension shows up in the same places. As for the jaw pain, you may grind your teeth like I do or you may have TMJ (I have both). In either case, an NTI device can really make a difference. I had to have my dentist create one for me. NTIs are much better than the old night guards because the guards still allow your back teeth to clinch and "grind." All that happens with a guard is that you end-up chewing through it eventually because your back teeth still are able to clamp down. An NTI is made of a hard plastic that fits only over the first few front teeth (the dentist can recommend whether you should have a device for the lower or upper teeth). When you try to grind your teeth, you can’t cause your back teeth to touch (i.e., the NTI creates a gap between your lower and upper teeth), so there is no grinding at all. It has really helped me with morning jaw pain and headaches too! Ask your dentist!
I meant to say:
"When you try to grind your teeth, you can’t because your back teeth can’t touch … " But, you’re a smart lady, I’m sure you figured it out. :)
Excellent advice, Dice! And it’s so good to see you are still around. :)
…I thought I was the only one. I didn’t realize it was economy-related, honestly. I’m just going through SEVERAL personal ordeals and have noticed that I’ve been clenching fists and grinding teeth CONSTANTLY lately without really realizing. I even purchased individual dental insurance just to get it checked out, ‘cause now even my JAW is feeling increasingly tight lately, like it’s gonna lock up any second.
And DAMN it’s good to see your name again, Jane. I was just thinking LAST NIGHT "I would give anything to hear from Jane Wagner on WOW during these stressful times." And here you are. You intuitive Pisces, you.
Greetings from the North, Ms. Jane. Just FYI, what you’re talking about is so prevalent, in fact there are websites and posts dedicated to it. E.g., http://www.ehow.com/how_2193516_relieve-jaw-neck-tension.html
I’m thinking of you and hope you’re doing well. xo, MP
Jane-
Oddly enough, each day is worth chewing through the leather straps…once again.
Sometimes, it feels like my jaws have locked into some secret code. When I wake I find that the little plastic template that they made for only my mouth is wearing quickly away. In fact, I will be going to the dreaded dentist tomorrow….in hopes that he can super duper dental glue my retainer. It broke over the weekend. Darn it!
I feel your pain sistah!
xo Josie