The word for today is Bruxism.

I didn't know the term used to describe the grinding or clenching of teeth while sleeping until today! It comes from the Greek "gnashing of teeth." 

This is more common than you'd think. I used to wake up with a sore jaw or a headache and thought I'd just had a stressful dream or something, like when I get that crinkle in between my brows when I wake -- I know it's from a problem I was working out in my dreams.

But now that I know the word (bruxism), I'll be happy to let any of you know that there is an easy solution: Just go to your dentist and ask about getting a Nightguard made. The dentist will take impressions of your teeth and then you'll come back a few days later to make sure the fit is good and then your clenching days will be over!

Of course, if you don't have insurance, this could run you $400 or more. So a cheap solution is to go to your local sporting goods store and pick up an Everlast boxing mouthpiece for about $2.95. You boil it in water and conform it to your mouth. I'm not sure how comfy this would be to sleep in -- it's much thicker than the pliable Nightguards. You may be better off just using it when sparring;)

But do SOMEthing! Treat your body better, and your mind will follow -- that's what I always say.

Well, I kinda made it up just now, but you get the point.

Later!

Gobigblue