What’s Bruxism?

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Bruxism is a medical condition in which the sufferer grinds or clenches their teeth unconsciously, often while sleeping. It affects many children and adults and can be a serious condition. People with this condition suffer from a number of related dental and medical problems that can get worse over time if teeth grinding is not corrected. Many people who have it are unaware of their condition, as they only grind their teeth when unconscious. Often, a person sleeping in the same room as the affected person is the one who discovers the problem, due to the characteristic sound.

Chronic jaw clenching can cause pain in the jaw, ears, or face, as well as muscle soreness and headaches. Additionally, bruxism can damage your teeth through chipping or erosion. The teeth of a person with this problem can become more sensitive and more prone to decay as the enamel wears away. The condition can also affect the sufferer’s sleeping partner, as the noise from teeth grinding can be loud enough to prevent them from getting a good night’s sleep.

Lifestyle may contribute to the development of bruxism, although it is not known to what extent this is true. Excessive alcohol intake, along with poor exercise and sleeping habits, is thought to contribute to the condition. Stress can also be a factor, particularly in those whose grinding appears during their waking hours. However, many cases are due to a misaligned jaw or teeth, especially in children. Bruxism can also be a symptom of another disease or a side effect of some medications.

The most common treatment for bruxism is a mouthguard worn while sleeping. This can both prevent damage to the teeth and minimize tooth grinding behavior. Mouthguards can be bought over the counter or custom fitted. Lifestyle changes, such as mindfully relaxing your jaw during the day, managing stress, and making sure you get a good night’s sleep, can also be helpful.

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