Does Chewing Gum Help with Teeth Grinding?

If you grind your teeth, you’re not alone. Teeth grinding (bruxism) is common and can cause jaw pain, headaches, and worn-down teeth. If you’re looking for a simple fix, you might wonder: Can chewing gum help with teeth grinding, or could it make things worse?

It’s a great question, and the answer isn’t so simple. While gum can feel like a quick fix for tension, it might not always be the best choice for teeth grinders.

We’ll break down how chewing gum affects teeth grinding and share better ways to manage bruxism and protect your smile.

Can Chewing Gum Actually Help or Worsen Teeth Grinding?

While chewing gum might seem like a quick fix, it can sometimes do more harm than good for people who grind their teeth. Here’s why:

Overworks the Jaw Muscles

Constant chewing keeps your jaw muscles active, which can lead to muscle fatigue, tightness, and increased tension. This can actually make bruxism symptoms worse.

Increases Jaw Pain and Headaches

 If you already experience jaw pain or headaches from teeth grinding, adding more strain through frequent gum chewing can intensify these issues.

Reinforces the Habit of Clenching

Chewing gum trains your jaw to stay in a constant state of motion. This can make clenching and grinding more likely, especially for people with awake bruxism.

Triggers TMJ Issues

For some people, excessive gum chewing can lead to or worsen temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, causing jaw pain, popping, or difficulty opening the mouth fully.

So, does chewing gum help or hurt?
For most people with bruxism, chewing gum isn’t the best solution. While it might offer a short-term distraction, the extra strain it puts on your jaw can worsen grinding symptoms over time.

Related Articles:

• How To Relieve Tooth Pain From Grinding?
• Jaw Pain: Why Does It Hurt On One Side
• What Does TMJ Feel Like?

Why People Think Chewing Gum Might Help

Chewing gum is often seen as a simple way to relieve stress or keep your mouth busy, which is why some people think it might help with teeth grinding. Here’s why this idea seems appealing:

It Helps Relieve Stress

Stress is a common trigger for teeth grinding. Since chewing gum can be a soothing habit for some, it’s thought to help reduce stress and tension that lead to bruxism.

It Keeps Your Jaw Moving

Some believe that chewing gum gives your jaw a purposeful motion, helping to reduce unconscious clenching or grinding, especially during the day.

It Distracts the Mind

For people who grind their teeth when feeling anxious or focused, gum can act as a simple distraction, redirecting the urge to grind.

Note: While these reasons make sense, the effects of chewing gum on bruxism aren’t always positive. In some cases, it can actually make the problem worse.

Expert Opinions on Chewing Gum and Bruxism

When it comes to teeth grinding, dental experts generally advise caution with chewing gum. While it might seem like a simple stress-reliever, it can often do more harm than good for those with bruxism.

Here’s what experts say:

Chewing gum can strain your jaw: 

Studies show that chewing gum can cause jaw fatigue, but the muscles usually recover quickly. However, for people with bruxism, constant chewing can make things worse over time. (Source: European Journal of Oral Sciences)

It may trigger or worsen TMJ issues

Dr. Kahn explains that parafunctional habits, such as chewing gum, can lead to temporomandibular disorders or aggravate existing conditions, potentially leading to pain, popping sounds, or difficulty moving the jaw. (Source: visit the full article on Cleveland Clinic.)

No strong evidence that gum helps with bruxism

While chewing gum might offer short-term stress relief, there’s little scientific proof that it reduces teeth grinding. In fact, for some, it may make symptoms worse. [Source: read the full article on PubMed Central (PMC).]

Moderation matters

Note that occasional gum chewing isn’t always harmful. However, if you already have jaw pain or grind your teeth regularly, it’s best to avoid it. (Source: refer to the study on Taylor & Francis Online.)

The bottom line?
Chewing gum isn’t a reliable solution for teeth grinding. Instead, experts recommend focusing on proven methods—like stress management and custom night guards—to protect your teeth and ease jaw tension.

Better Ways to Manage Teeth Grinding

If chewing gum isn’t the answer, don’t worry—there are plenty of effective ways to reduce teeth grinding and protect your smile. Here are some dentist-recommended solutions:

1. Custom Night Guards

One of the most effective ways to prevent teeth damage from grinding is by using a custom-fit night guard. It acts as a protective barrier between your teeth, reducing the impact of grinding and easing jaw strain while you sleep.

• Prevents tooth wear and fractures
• Reduces jaw pain and morning headaches
• Designed for a comfortable, snug fit

2. Stress Management Techniques

Since stress and anxiety are common triggers for bruxism, finding ways to relax can make a big difference.

• Practice deep breathing exercises or meditation
• Try yoga or light physical activity to release tension
• Maintain a consistent sleep routine for better rest

3. Jaw Relaxation Exercises

Simple stretches and massages can help reduce jaw tension and prevent clenching.

• Gently massage your jaw muscles in circular motions
• Use a warm compress to soothe tight jaw muscles
• Try jaw exercises to improve mobility and reduce stiffness

4. Lifestyle Adjustments

Certain habits can make teeth grinding worse, so small lifestyle changes can help:

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol, especially before bed
• Avoid chewing on non-food items (like pens or fingernails)
• Stay hydrated—dehydration can sometimes increase muscle tension

5. Professional Help When Needed

If teeth grinding is causing frequent pain or damaging your teeth, consider visiting a dentist. They can:

• Recommend a custom night guard
• Check for bite misalignment or TMJ issues
• Suggest treatments like physical therapy or Botox for severe cases

Related Articles:

• How To Relieve Tooth Pain From Grinding?
• Bruxism Diet To Manage Symptoms Of Bruxism
• Guide to Choosing the Right Night Guard

FAQs About Chewing Gum and Teeth Grinding

1. Is sugar-free gum better for people who grind their teeth?

While sugar-free gum is better for your teeth overall, it doesn’t reduce the risk of jaw strain for teeth grinders. Whether it’s regular or sugar-free, constant chewing can still overwork your jaw muscles and potentially worsen bruxism symptoms.

2. Can chewing gum strengthen jaw muscles and help with teeth grinding?

Chewing gum can strengthen jaw muscles, but for people who grind their teeth, this isn’t always a good thing. Stronger jaw muscles can actually increase clenching and grinding, leading to more tension and discomfort.

3. Is it ever okay to chew gum if I grind my teeth? 

Occasional gum chewing is usually fine if you don’t have jaw pain or severe bruxism. However, if you notice increased jaw tension, headaches, or worsening grinding symptoms, it’s best to skip the gum and try other stress-relief techniques.

Conclusion: Should You Chew Gum If You Grind Your Teeth?

So, does chewing gum help with teeth grinding? For most people, the answer is no. While it might seem like a quick stress reliever, chewing gum can actually strain your jaw muscles, making teeth grinding worse and causing more pain and tension.

If you grind your teeth or struggle with jaw pain and headaches, it’s best to avoid gum and try proven solutions like custom night guards, stress relief techniques, and jaw relaxation exercises.

At Pro Teeth Guard, we make high-quality, custom-fit night guards at a fraction of the cost you’d pay at the dentist—designed to protect your teeth and ease jaw pain. We offer a 60 Day 110% Money Back Satisfaction Guarantee.