Biting your tongue during sleep is an involuntary action, occurring when the tongue inadvertently becomes trapped between the teeth. While occasional incidents may happen, frequent nighttime tongue biting can signal underlying health conditions.
Common Causes
Sleep bruxism, involving teeth grinding and jaw clenching, is a frequent cause. This unconscious habit generates significant force, inadvertently trapping the tongue between the teeth. Stress and anxiety are often linked to bruxism, leading to increased muscle tension and involuntary jaw movements during sleep. This clenching can position the tongue unfavorably, making it susceptible to injury.
Sleep disorders also contribute. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), where breathing repeatedly stops and starts, can lead to sudden movements or jaw clenching. Individuals with OSA might have larger tongues or relaxed mouth muscles, increasing the likelihood of biting. Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD), more common in children, involves repetitive body movements during sleep like head banging or body rocking, which can also result in tongue injury.
Certain medications can induce involuntary movements, known as drug-induced movement disorders, including oral and facial movements during sleep. Antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-nausea drugs are examples that can cause conditions like tardive dyskinesia, characterized by involuntary movements of the face, mouth, and tongue, leading to tongue biting.
Dental or jaw misalignment can also predispose someone to bite their tongue. When teeth do not align properly or have sharp edges, the tongue may be positioned to be more prone to biting. This improper bite can restrict tongue movement, forcing it into a vulnerable position.
Nocturnal seizures are a serious consideration for persistent tongue biting. During a seizure, uncontrolled muscle contractions and body movements can lead to sudden jaw clenching, causing the tongue to be bitten. Bites on the tip and sides of the tongue are characteristic of seizures.
Recognizing the Signs
Identifying nighttime tongue biting involves observing specific indicators upon waking. Soreness, cuts, or indentations along the sides of the tongue are common signs. The tongue may appear red, swollen, or have raw, scalloped edges, indicating repeated trauma. Individuals might also experience general oral discomfort or pain in the mouth. If the biting is related to bruxism, symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, or facial soreness may be present, and a sleep partner might notice sounds or movements during sleep that suggest tongue biting.
Strategies for Relief and Prevention
Managing stress and anxiety can help reduce involuntary muscle activity during sleep. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, or yoga before bedtime can promote a calmer state, potentially lessening jaw clenching and teeth grinding. This decreases the likelihood of tongue biting.
Custom-fitted dental devices, such as nightguards or splints, provide a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth, protecting the tongue from injury. These devices are designed to fit an individual’s dental anatomy, offering comfort and effectiveness in preventing the tongue from getting caught. They are beneficial for those experiencing bruxism.
Addressing underlying sleep issues is important. While direct treatment for conditions like sleep apnea is complex, maintaining good sleep hygiene, such as a regular sleep schedule and avoiding stimulants before bed, can improve overall sleep quality. If medications are suspected of causing involuntary movements, consulting a doctor to review current prescriptions and potential side effects may be beneficial. Correcting dental misalignments through orthodontic treatment can create more space for the tongue, reducing biting risk.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Seeking medical advice is advisable if tongue biting becomes a persistent issue, causing significant pain or recurring injury. If the biting is frequent or leads to open wounds, ulcers, or infections on the tongue, professional evaluation is warranted. Such continuous trauma can lead to chronic pain and other oral health concerns. If there are indications of underlying conditions like sleep apnea, severe bruxism, or other sleep disorders, a healthcare professional can conduct a thorough assessment. Symptoms such as loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, or excessive daytime sleepiness alongside tongue biting suggest the need for a sleep study, and a sudden onset or worsening of tongue biting, especially if accompanied by other neurological symptoms, should also prompt immediate medical consultation to rule out conditions like nocturnal seizures.