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Why Am I Dreaming About My Teeth Falling Out

added on: July 26, 2022
My Rivertown Dentist in Madison

Everyone has unusual dreams from time to time. Of all the odd or worrisome dreams that people have, dreaming about your teeth falling out is among the most common. If you’ve had this dream before, or even have it regularly, you may wonder what’s to blame for this unsettling experience. Here’s what you should know about dreaming about your teeth falling out before scheduling your next appointment with Dr. Ashley Lee and her friendly team at My Rivertown Dentist. 

Why Do I Dream About My Teeth Falling Out?

Wondering what your dreams could mean is not a new concept. People throughout history have pondered the spiritual, mental, and physical implications that particular dreams could point to. While it’s impossible to determine the cause of most of the things we dream about, there are hypotheses for certain images we experience while we sleep, particularly if they’re recurring. Here are some of the most common explanations for why you might dream about your teeth falling out, breaking, or becoming loose:

  • Stress or Anxiety: It’s common to have this dream when you’re feeling anxious or worried about your professional or personal life.
  • Life Changes: If you’re moving, about to get married, changing jobs, or undergoing another significant life event, it’s normal to have dreams about your teeth.
  • Personal Loss: Personal loss, such as a death in the family, can lead to having unusual dreams, including losing your teeth.
  • Dental Problem: If you’re experiencing a dental issue, such as bruxism, you may find yourself dreaming about teeth.

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism occurs when a person grinds or clenches their teeth. It affects around 10% of adults and 15% of children. Most people who suffer from bruxism don’t even realize they grind their teeth and commonly do so at night. If you aren’t aware that you grind or clench your teeth, being aware of the symptoms of bruxism can determine if you could be doing it in your sleep. Signs of bruxism include:

  • Waking up with a sore jaw, an earache, or a headache
  • Unexplainable dental problems, such as chipped or worn down teeth
  • Pain when opening your mouth or chewing
  • Waking up during the night
  • How to Treat Bruxism

No one knows exactly what causes bruxism, but some lifestyle factors could make you more likely to grind your teeth. These include stress, drinking alcohol, and taking certain medicines. While there’s no cure for teeth grinding, alleviating your symptoms and protecting your teeth from damage are possible. If you notice any unusual signs, such as jaw tenderness or disturbed sleeping habits, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lee at My Rivertown Dentist right away. Diagnosing bruxism can help you find the relief you deserve. If you’re diagnosed with bruxism, she may recommend that you wear a night guard. Using a custom mouth guard at night is a simple step that can help you protect your oral health, alleviate oral discomfort, and improve your sleep quality.

Schedule Your Consultation at My Rivertown Dentist

You deserve to sleep peacefully and live without jaw pain. If you have been having recurring dreams about your teeth falling out, are prone to grinding your teeth, or think that you could have bruxism, don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Lee and her trusted team in Madison, WI. We are proud to offer the best in professional dental care in a comfortable, relaxing setting. In as little as two dental appointments, you can receive your custom mouth guard and improve your oral health. Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment to see how easy maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile for life can be!