clenching problem

Message

#1 Post by **peerue** » Thu Dec 24, 2009 8:05 am

Has anyone ever had this problem...I can't stop clenching my teeth and putting pressure on them...it hurts and feels good at the same time...strange, I know. I never did it before braces, but now, sometimes, I just can't stop. My tongue also can't stop moving around the braces and scraping against them, causing my tongue to get sores on it--I'm a mess! I've had these braces for 2.5 months...HELP!!

#2 Post by b » Thu Dec 24, 2009 9:11 am

I have the same problem!!! I dont know what to do about it either! Someone help!

#3 Post by **braceface418** » Thu Dec 24, 2009 5:33 pm

I like to think this is a lot like what kids or puppies go through when they have new teeth growing in and like to bite on things. I usually refer to it as being "bitey" and have done so often enough that my husband knows what it means.

I bought a bunch of bite wafers. When I get really bitey, I'll bust one out and chomp away. It reminds me of how it sometimes feels good to stretch or work out with sore muscles, but I'm not sure if that's exactly why it feels good.

#4 Post by **Saffie** » Thu Dec 24, 2009 6:56 pm

I do this too, and I think it's because the shape of the stuff in my mouth is changing around and some subconscious part of my brain needs to keep being reminded where everything is. I don't have any suggestions for what you do to stop it (except for maybe covering every bit of metal with wax?), but teething gel is very good for putting on any cuts or sores on your tongue.

Do you also find yourself pushing against certain teeth with your tongue to try and make them move faster? It probably makes no difference, but at least it feels like I'm doing something.