Sleeping is supposed to be a relaxing and peaceful activity that helps individuals to rejuvenate and prepare for another day. However, it is not always the case due to different sleeping habits that can cause discomfort, injuries, and other unfavorable outcomes. One of the most common sleeping habits is biting the tongue while sleeping. This habit can be interesting and discomforting, but it is also a source of concern for many people, especially those who bite their tongue frequently. This article explores the reasons behind biting the tongue while sleeping, the causes, risks, and ways of stopping this habit.
Why do I bite my tongue while sleeping?
Biting the tongue while sleeping is a habit that affects many people, even though only a few may be aware of it. The reason why people bite their tongue while sleeping is not always clear or straightforward. However, there are different theories that can explain this habit:
- Airway obstruction: People who have airway obstruction problems such as sleep apnea, snoring, or enlarged tonsils, may experience tongue biting during sleep. This is because the obstruction can cause people to breathe through their mouth, and this may cause the tongue to fall back and get in the way of the teeth.
- Nighttime seizures: Another possible cause of biting the tongue while sleeping is seizures. Seizures can cause involuntary muscle movements, and biting the tongue can be one of them.
- Anxiety: Anxiety can cause involuntary muscle movements, including biting the tongue while sleeping. People who are anxious, stressed, or worried may be more prone to this habit.
- Misaligned bite: A person’s bite can also play a role in biting the tongue during sleep. If a person’s teeth do not align correctly, the tongue may rub against the teeth, causing irritation and leading to habitual tongue biting.
- Sleep bruxism: Bruxism is a condition that causes people to grind their teeth or clench their jaw while sleeping. This can result in biting the tongue as well as other oral and facial injuries.
What causes this? Is it dangerous?
There are different causes of biting the tongue while sleeping, as discussed above. While this habit may not be dangerous or harmful in some cases, it can cause injuries and discomfort in others.
For instance, frequent tongue biting can cause ulcers, sores, and bleeding. It can also cause permanent damage to the tongue, leading to scarring, nerve damage, and other complications.
“Biting your tongue while sleeping is no laughing matter. While it may seem like a simple discomfort, it can cause significant damage to your oral health” – Dr. Martin Couto, dental expert.
In rare cases, biting the tongue while sleeping can also lead to choking or aspiration, which can be life-threatening.
Therefore, it is essential to address this habit if it is frequent or severe. It is also crucial to seek medical or dental help if the habit is accompanied by other symptoms such as snoring, sleep apnea, jaw pain, or headaches.
How do I stop biting my tongue while sleeping?
Stopping tongue biting while sleeping can be challenging, especially if the habit is caused by an underlying medical condition or sleep disorder. However, there are different strategies and treatments that can help mitigate or completely stop this habit. Some of these include:
- Dental or orthodontic treatment: If the habit is caused by a misaligned bite, dental or orthodontic treatments such as braces, jaw surgery, or dental realignment can help alleviate the problem.
- Medications: Some medications such as muscle relaxants, antianxiety drugs, and anticonvulsants can help control involuntary muscle movements and alleviate nighttime seizures that may cause tongue biting.
- Night guards or mouthguards: These devices can help protect the tongue and teeth from grinding, clenching, and other movements that may cause injuries while sleeping.
- Relaxation techniques: Stress and anxiety can cause involuntary muscle movements, including tongue biting. Therefore, techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help reduce stress and alleviate this habit.
It is crucial to consult a doctor or dentist if the habit is severe or accompanied by other symptoms that may require additional treatment or management. They can assess the underlying cause, recommend appropriate treatment, and provide advice on how to manage the habit more effectively.