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What causes bruxism?

While the exact causes of bruxism have not been identified, factors that are thought to contribute to development of bruxism include: stress and anxiety; sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea; problems with teeth alignment; gastric reflux; some medications, including antidepressants (such as fluoxetine and sertraline) and phenothiazines (such as chlorpromazine and fluphenazine), which are used to treat mental health conditions; medical conditions, such as Parkinsons's disease and Huntingtons's disease, and; lifestyle factors such as smoking, using stimulant drugs (such as amphetamines, ecstasy and cocaine) or excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is the unintentional clenching or grinding of the teeth. While it mostly occurs during sleep, some people can also do it while they are awake.

What are the symptoms of bruxism?

Bruxism that occurs during sleep can be detected from the sounds made by the grinding of the teeth. Other signs and symptoms can include: muscle tightness and stiffness around the temples or jaws, which is most noticeable after sleep; difficulty opening …

Who can develop bruxism?

Bruxism can occur at any age. Although it is commonly found in children, they often outgrow it.

How is bruxism diagnosed?

Bruxism is often detected by a dentist, who can observe damage to teeth or bones and muscle tenderness. It may also be detected during a sleep study.

How is bruxism treated?

Many cases of bruxism may not require treatment. If the symptoms are bothersome or causing dental damage, treatment options include wearing mouth guards or occlusal splints (night-guards) while sleeping, stress management, or dental treatment to correct teeth …

Can bruxism be cured?

Bruxism in adults may be cured by changing lifestyle habits that are known risk factors for the development of the condition.

Will bruxism clear on its own?

Children often outgrow their bruxism. In adults, bruxism can stop when you make changes in the lifestyle habits that may be causing it.

What can be done at home to treat bruxism?

To treat bruxism at home, adopting stress and anxiety-reducing measures may be helpful. Additionally, avoiding excessive consumption of stimulants, such as recreational drugs and alcohol, may treat symptoms of bruxism.

Is bruxism serious?

Many cases of bruxism are not serious, although severe cases can lead to ongoing troublesome symptoms, such as headaches, restricted jaw movement and aching shoulder muscles. Development of dental problems, such as loss or misalignment of teeth, can also occur.

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About this article

Author: Dr Bow Tauro PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 22 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Votes: 861 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Obstructive sleep apnea

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