I have the past few years developed a habit of subconsciously clenching my jaw. I think it started during COVID when masks were required as it helped me keep my jaw set and my mask not move all over the place. Now, I seem to do it all the time, but moreso when I'm focused or concentrating.

For example, today I have been doing chores around the house. Mindless stuff like vacuuming and dusting, the usual. I didn't realize I was clenching my jaw, but I DID finally realize it when my jaw joint (hinge? I dunno how to describe it) started hurting and being sore from doing it. I want to stop and when I stop for a moment and focus on the here and now, I will catch myself and correct and take a few deep breaths (something my therapist suggested). But I always seem to default to clenching again.

Have any of you overcome something like this? It's so subconscious that I don't notice it until I'm already sore and then sometimes I'm so focused on the soreness that I clench my jaw again. It's annoying and I'd like to not always have a sore jaw.