When I use my CPAP I clench my teeth

[jpek]

I've been using a CPAP since 2015 or 2016. I usually use the Wisp mask. I've noticed a long time ago that when I wear the CPAP I tend to clench my teeth. It's been becoming more noticeable lately. When I wake up I often feel tightness and aching not only in my jaw but also throughout my shoulders, chest and neck and even upper back. When I sleep without my CPAP -- for example, taking a nap on the couch -- this doesn't happen. I know that I grind my teeth in my sleep anyway, but I don't feel it when I wake up. I do wear a mouth guard or, currently, invisilign, so I'm less concerned about the wear and tear to my teeth than to the overall tightness and clenching. Is there some way to reduce this?

[Islandwoman]

My dentist set me up with a mouth guard to protect my teeth. My dental insurance paid for most.They are also available at drug stores but the ones I saw were bulkier. Worth trying.

[jpek]

If you read my post you'll see that I already have a mouth guard -- or currently, actually I wear invisilign -- to protect my teeth. That's not my concern. With a mouth guard I still clench my teeth though and wake up with a jaw/neck/shoulder etc. ache.

[blacknebula]

I also clench while wear my CPAP (and probably before but it's worse since I got the CPAP). I got a custom made appliance from my dentist, which actually adjusts the position of my bottom jaw forward. Then, when I try to clench, it is uncomfortable and I don't do it. I've had zero issues since I started using it. Invisalign will, as you said, protect your teeth, but since it leaves the jaw position neutral will not help with clenching/grinding. Maybe ask your Invisalign provider if they have any suggestions?

[Grace~~~]

I was thinking along the same lines as BlackNebula.

Since your bite is being adjusted by the invisaligns you may have a real need to clench. It is a relief to be able to bite down hard.

Perhaps try using therapy biters?
https://www.dentakit.com/bitewafers.htm ... gLGOPD_BwE

I have a friend who is a martial arts guru and who often talks about the core focus and strength radiating from your bite.

In the meantime, if you'll slather some kwan loong / white flower on your neck, shoulders and those protrusions at the base of your skull I'm sure you will get relief from the aching muscles. (Just be careful to wash your hands after application and don't get it in your eyes) Leave it on and lay down and rest or even fall asleep with it. It lasts for hours! I love this stuff.

https://www.amazon.com/KWAN-LOONG-Medic ... B00T6BWTXA

wishing you success ~~~

[jpek]

Thanks, everybody. I'll talk to my dentist.

[clenchingtobreathe]

I started extreme clenching several years ago. Felt fatigued every day. Went and had a sleep test. Got put on CPAP (was told by the Dr that CPAP would stop the clenching) WRONG. It didn't. After 6 months on CPAP, I felt not one bit better. In fact, I clenched my teeth even harder while on CPAP. Remember, serious teeth clenching is like lifting heavy weights all night in your sleep....therefore, the sore jaws, temples and back of head, aching neck, shoulder and back.

I don't know why I clenched harder while using CPAP. I suspect it was a result of the stress CPAP caused me as I had a terrible time adjusting to it.

Mouth guards will not stop clenching. They WILL protect your teeth if you are damaging them as a result. Frankly, I've had every type of mouth guard there is: hard, soft, upper, lower etc. They only make me clench harder. I'm now going through the orthodontic braces process to correct a bad bite that has worsened with age. Could that be part of your problem? More than likely, the bite correction will not stop the clenching either but will, at least, stop the damage I'm doing to my hard palate.

[clenchingtobreathe]

Oh and I see your are using Invisiline. I've already learned that my clenching changes from place to place as the braces move my teeth.....