DENTAL ENCYLOPEDIA

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Bruxism

Commonly know as teeth grinding, bruxism is defined as a sustained grinding, rubbing together, or gnashing of the teeth with greater than normal chewing force.

This activity may be diurnal, nocturnal, or both. Although bruxism is initiated on a subconscious level, nocturnal bruxism is potentially more harmful because the patient is not aware of it while sleeping. Therefore, it can be difficult to detect, but it should be suspected in any individual exhibiting abnormal tooth wear or pain.

The prevalence of bruxism is about 10% and is less common with age.

The cause of bruxism is often unclear. Some theories relate bruxism to malocclusion, neuromuscular disturbances, responses to emotional distress, or a combination of these factors.

The causes of bruxism are difficult to determine. One theory states that bruxism is performed on a subconscious reflex-controlled level and is related to emotional responses and tooth interferences.

A bite guard or night guard is often fabricated and worn by the patient to help protect the teeth and supporting structures by even force distribution.

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