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Bruxism (Tooth Grinding and Clenching)

Repetitive jaw-muscle activity causing tooth wear, jaw pain and sleep disturbance.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is Bruxism (Tooth Grinding and Clenching)?

Bruxism is defined by the International Consensus 2018 as repetitive masticatory muscle activity characterized by clenching or grinding of teeth and/or bracing or thrusting of the mandible. Sleep bruxism (SB) is a sleep-related movement disorder, while awake bruxism (AB) is a behavioral phenomenon.

Prevalence: AB ~22-30% of adults, SB ~8-13% of adults, both higher in children. SB is associated with sleep arousals, obstructive sleep apnea, GERD, anxiety, alcohol/caffeine and SSRIs. AB correlates strongly with stress and concentration tasks.

Diagnosis combines patient/partner history, dental examination (tooth wear facets, masseter hypertrophy, scalloped tongue), morning headache, jaw pain, and is confirmed by polysomnography (gold standard for SB) showing rhythmic masticatory muscle activity (RMMA). Management is multidisciplinary: occlusal splint, behavioral therapy, sleep hygiene and treatment of comorbid OSA.

Symptoms

Tooth grinding sounds at night (per partner)
Tooth wear, fractures or sensitivity
Morning jaw pain or stiffness
Tension-type headaches on waking
Masseter muscle hypertrophy
Scalloped tongue and ridged buccal mucosa
Tinnitus or earache without ear pathology
Disrupted sleep with frequent arousals

Risk Factors

Stress, anxiety and depression
Sleep disorders (OSA, insomnia)
GERD and acid reflux
Alcohol, caffeine and tobacco use
SSRI antidepressants
Stimulant use (methamphetamine, ecstasy)
Family history of bruxism
Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Witnessed grinding by partner
  • Tooth wear, fractures or hypersensitivity
  • Morning jaw pain or headache
  • Suspected sleep apnea with bruxism
  • Failed over-the-counter mouthguard
  • Severe dental damage requiring restoration

Treatment Methods

01
Comprehensive dental and sleep evaluation
02
Polysomnography for suspected sleep bruxism
03
Stabilization splint (custom-fitted occlusal guard)
04
Sleep hygiene and stress management
05
Cognitive behavioral therapy for awake bruxism
06
Treatment of OSA with CPAP if indicated
07
Botulinum toxin into masseters in selected cases
08
Restorative dentistry for damaged teeth

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.