Biting one’s tongue during sleep can be an unsettling experience, leading to pain, soreness, and minor injuries. While occasional, frequent nighttime tongue biting might signal an underlying condition that warrants attention.
Common Reasons for Nighttime Tongue Biting
Sleep bruxism, or involuntary teeth grinding or clenching, is a frequent reason for nighttime tongue biting. This activity can cause the tongue to become trapped between teeth, leading to accidental bites. Bruxism can also result in jaw pain, headaches, and tooth damage.
Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD) can also lead to nighttime tongue biting. This disorder typically affects children and involves repetitive body movements during sleep, such as head banging or body rocking. These uncontrolled movements can include jaw motions that cause the tongue to be bitten.
Nocturnal seizures are a significant cause of tongue biting, especially when bites occur on the side of the tongue. During a seizure, individuals lose muscle control, leading to involuntary jaw clenching and tongue injury. The tongue bite may be the primary indicator upon waking.
Sleep apnea, characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, can also contribute to tongue biting. Individuals with sleep apnea may have relaxed mouth muscles or larger tongues, increasing the likelihood of the tongue getting caught between teeth. The body’s effort to resume breathing can also lead to jaw clenching, resulting in a bite.
Misaligned teeth (malocclusion) or other dental issues can make a person more prone to biting their tongue. When teeth are not properly aligned, the tongue may rest in a position where it is more susceptible to being bitten during sleep.
Stress and anxiety contribute to increased muscle tension, including in the jaw. This heightened tension can exacerbate bruxism, making individuals more likely to clench their jaws and inadvertently bite their tongues during sleep.
Certain medications can induce involuntary movements or contribute to bruxism, increasing the risk of tongue biting. Some psychiatric medications, like SSRIs, have been linked to bruxism as a side effect. Discussing medications with a healthcare provider can help identify a cause.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Consult a healthcare professional if nighttime tongue biting becomes frequent or severe. Persistent pain, swelling, or bleeding from the tongue warrant evaluation. Repeated trauma can lead to complications such as ulcers, infections, or scalloping.
If tongue biting is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seek medical advice. These might include excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, or gasping for air during sleep, suggesting sleep apnea. Morning headaches or jaw pain might also point to bruxism.
Significant injury, such as deep cuts or persistent bleeding, requires a visit to a dentist or doctor. Any associated neurological symptoms, like confusion upon waking, unexplained falls, or involuntary body shaking, could indicate a seizure disorder. A bite on the side of the tongue, rather than the tip, is often noted in cases of nocturnal seizures.
The impact on daily life, such as chronic pain, difficulty eating or speaking, or anxiety about sleeping, also signals a need for professional guidance. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause and recommend diagnostic tests, such as a sleep study.
Managing and Preventing Tongue Biting
Dental interventions are a primary approach to managing nighttime tongue biting, especially for bruxism or malocclusion. A custom-fitted dental mouthguard or splint can protect the tongue and teeth. Addressing misaligned teeth through orthodontic treatment may also reduce accidental bites.
Managing stress and anxiety can reduce tongue biting, particularly when psychological factors contribute to bruxism. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help relax jaw muscles and reduce tension.
Lifestyle adjustments can also play a role in prevention. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bedtime can improve sleep quality and reduce involuntary movements. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and a comfortable sleep environment can minimize disruptions that might lead to tongue biting.
Addressing diagnosed underlying medical conditions is a fundamental step in preventing tongue biting. Treating sleep apnea with a CPAP machine can reduce involuntary movements that may cause tongue injuries. If nocturnal seizures are identified, managing the condition through medication can resolve tongue biting.
Reviewing medications with a doctor is important, as some drugs can contribute to involuntary movements or bruxism. Adjusting dosages or exploring alternative medications, under medical supervision, might alleviate the problem.