Are You Clenching or Grinding?

​A Guide to Protecting Your Smile and Finding Relief
Do you wake up with a dull headache or a tight jaw? You might be one of the millions who struggle with Bruxism—the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth. While it often happens under the cover of sleep, the damage to your smile and your well-being is very real. The Golden Rule: "Lips Sealed, Teeth Apart."  Most people believe their teeth should touch when their mouth is closed.
​In reality, your teeth should only touch when you are chewing. For the rest of the day, your jaw should be in a "rest position."

The Habit Reset: Close your lips, slightly drop your lower jaw, and maintain that feeling of space. 
Training Your Muscles: The "Swallow" Technique.
If you catch yourself tensing up during the day, you can "deprogram" your jaw muscles with this simple exercise: 
​Place the tip of your tongue between your front teeth. Practice swallowing. Repeat this 3–5 times throughout the day. This motion prevents the activation of the masseter muscles, effectively breaking the cycle of tension. 

​When Damage Happens in the Dark.
The most significant damage usually occurs while you sleep. Dr. Jeff Velasquez, a leading Long Beach dentist, recommends an Occlusal Guard or Splint. This deprogramming device acts as a protective barrier, preventing teeth from interlocking and allowing the jaw muscles to relax overnight.

📸 Visual Elements 
​1. The Anatomy of Bruxism (Diagram) and the relationship between the jaw muscles and the teeth. 
​Diagram: The Mechanics of the Jaw

​​ 2. Identifying the Signs (Photo)  

​Do You Recognize These Signs?
If you exhibit any of the following, it’s time to consult your dentist: 
Morning Headaches: A persistent ache upon waking. 
Worn Enamel: Teeth that look flat, chipped, or shortened. 
Gum Recession: "Notching" or abrasions at the neck of the tooth. 
​Muscle Tenderness: Pain in the jaw or face when chewing.

By
Jeff Velasquez, DDS
541 W. Willow St.
Long Beach, CA 90806
​562-424-9473