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Diseases & Conditions
Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition involving teeth clenching or grinding. Learn the symptoms, causes, effects on the teeth and jaw, and treatment options.
Bruxism refers to repetitive teeth grinding or jaw clenching, often during sleep but sometimes while awake. Some people do not realize it is happening until they develop jaw pain, morning headaches, tooth sensitivity, worn teeth, or comments from a bed partner about grinding sounds at night. [1][2]
Sleep bruxism and awake bruxism are related but not identical. Awake bruxism may be associated with stress, concentration, or habit-related jaw tension during the day. Sleep bruxism occurs during sleep and may be associated with arousals, sleep disorders, stress, or other contributing factors. [1][2][3]
Symptoms may include jaw soreness, facial pain, headaches, tooth wear, cracked fillings, increased tooth sensitivity, ear-area discomfort, and clicking or strain in the jaw joint. If bruxism persists, it may contribute to significant dental damage and worsen temporomandibular symptoms over time. [1][2]
Contributing factors vary. Stress and anxiety can play a role, but they are not the only explanation. Sleep problems, alcohol, smoking, caffeine, certain medications, and some neurologic or dental factors may also contribute. In children and adults alike, evaluation should consider the overall pattern rather than assuming a single cause. [1][2][3]
Diagnosis is often based on symptoms, dental findings, and history. Dentists may detect enamel wear, fractures, muscle tenderness, or signs of clenching before the patient recognizes the habit. In selected cases, sleep-focused evaluation may be considered if symptoms suggest a related sleep disorder. [1][2]
Treatment aims to reduce damage and relieve symptoms. Approaches may include stress reduction, behavior awareness during the day, management of contributing sleep problems, and dental devices such as night guards in appropriate individuals. A night guard can help protect the teeth, but it does not necessarily eliminate the underlying habit. [1][2][3]
Professional evaluation is important when there is significant pain, limited jaw opening, recurrent tooth fractures, severe morning headaches, or progressive tooth wear. [1][2]
References
- 1.Mayo Clinic. *Teeth grinding (bruxism) - Symptoms and causes*. 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bruxism/symptoms-causes/syc-20356095
- 2.NIDCR. *Bruxism*. 2025. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/bruxism
- 3.Mayo Clinic. *Teeth grinding (bruxism) - Diagnosis and treatment*. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bruxism/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356100
