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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

R A Disease & teeth clenching during sleep

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭

I am curious, I have never been a teeth clencher while I sleep .... until recently! Could there be a correlation between RA Disease and clenching my teeth during my sleep? Has anyone else experienced this?

I had my Dentist custom fit me for a night time mouth guard and I picked it up this afternoon. I will wear it tonight for the 1st time! I am actually feeling pretty positive about it. I've been wearing some I made from OTC kits but my jaws hurt when I wake up in the mornings. I hope this… read more

March 10 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members explored a possible connection between RA and teeth clenching during sleep, with many agreeing that RA-related stress can be a... Read more

Members explored a possible connection between RA and teeth clenching during sleep, with many agreeing that RA-related stress can be a contributing factor even when other life stressors are minimal. Several members shared that they use custom-fitted night guards made by their dentists to protect their teeth, with one member noting that a cracked tooth was what first prompted them to start wearing one. A recurring theme was that relaxation practices like meditation, light yoga, warm baths, and cutting out caffeine helped reduce grinding over time.

myRAteam

Could RA be related to teeth clenching during sleep?

While the search results don't specifically mention teeth clenching (bruxism) as a direct symptom of RA, there are several RA-related factors that could contribute to this new habit:

Possible connections include:

- Pain and inflammation - Joint pain and discomfort can Show Full Answer

Could RA be related to teeth clenching during sleep?

While the search results don't specifically mention teeth clenching (bruxism) as a direct symptom of RA, there are several RA-related factors that could contribute to this new habit:

Possible connections include:

- Pain and inflammation - Joint pain and discomfort can cause tension throughout your body, including your jaw, which may lead to clenching during sleep
- Sleep disruption - People with RA often experience poor sleep quality and frequent waking, which can trigger stress responses like teeth grinding
- Stress and anxiety - Living with chronic pain and RA symptoms can increase stress levels, a common cause of nighttime teeth clenching
- Medication side effects - Some RA medications can affect sleep patterns and muscle tension

What you can do:

It's important to mention this to your rheumatologist and dentist. They can help determine if it's related to your RA or another cause, and recommend solutions like a night guard to protect your teeth.

Many myRAteam members report various sleep disturbances with RA, so you're not alone in experiencing new sleep-related issues.

March 10
A myRAteam Member

I agree with you BB

March 27
A myRAteam Member

Thanks so much @A myRAteam Member I do try to relax every evening I draw a hot bath with one form or another with Epsom Salts in it.

I sometimes light a candle, turn on soft lighting and listen to music. I really like Tibetan Bells or Native American Flutes. Both are relaxing and I have Amazon Prime Music with a Library of choices!

Last night with the new mouth bite Guard- 🫦

Took me some time to get to sleep but I slept well. It stayed in place all night and I don't find my jaw to be sore, so, I think it is a good investment.

March 11
A myRAteam Member

I suggest wear a mouth guard when you sleep. You have a very good chance of cracking, chipping teeth. Ive been wearing one at night for a very long time because I did crack a tooth. Mine was stress related as my mom was very ill. Not sure about RA related. RA alone can be stressful. If other things in life aren't going as you'd like, to be safe wear the guard. Amazon is good custom made guards are pricey

March 10
A myRAteam Member

@A myRAteam Member how did you get away from the night time mouth guard?? I honestly am doing well and mine fits really tight and well. My Dentist had it made specifically for my mouth. Cost me quite a bit, but these are the only teeth I have, and I'd like to keep them! Lol

March 19

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