What is bruxism? Everything you need to know

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is a disorder characterized by the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, which typically occurs during sleep, though it can also happen during the day. People with this disorder usually do it unknowingly, which makes symptoms not evident until the effects start to show. This disorder affects both adults and children, and it’s important to address it promptly as it can lead to serious oral health consequences such as tooth wear, gum issues, and jaw discomfort. In addition to its dental effects, bruxism may be linked to stress, dental misalignment, or even sleep disorders.

Is it bad to clench your teeth at night?

Clenching your teeth at night can have multiple negative effects on dental health. This habit generates excessive pressure on the teeth and gums, which can cause premature wear, weakening the tooth enamel and leading to increased sensitivity. Additionally, the constant grinding or clenching can create pain and tension in the jaw muscles, which can result in frequent headaches, ear pain, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. The TMJ is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull, and excessive use of it can lead to difficulties opening the mouth or pain while chewing. In short, habitually clenching your teeth is harmful and requires medical attention to prevent further damage.

Symptoms and consequences of bruxism

Bruxism can manifest in various forms, and its symptoms may not be immediately apparent. However, there are some common signs that can help identify it. Some of the most frequent symptoms include worn or chipped teeth, tooth pain or sensitivity, and pain in the jaw, facial muscles, and neck. People with bruxism may also experience headaches, especially in the mornings, due to the tension built up overnight. Long-term consequences of bruxism can be severe. Ongoing damage to the teeth can lead to tooth loss, gum issues, and infections. Additionally, if left untreated, bruxism can cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can result in chronic pain and difficulty chewing.

Causes of bruxism

1. Stress and Anxiety

Emotional stress and anxiety are some of the main causes of bruxism. People who experience high levels of stress tend to clench their teeth as an unconscious response to tension. This can happen both during the day as an involuntary habit or more commonly at night while sleeping.

Complications:

• Frequent headaches, especially upon waking.
• Tension in the jaw and neck muscles, leading to chronic pain.
• Accelerated dental wear due to constant pressure on the teeth.
• Worsening stress and anxiety levels, creating a vicious cycle that perpetuates bruxism.

2. Dental Occlusion Problems

Dental occlusion refers to how the upper and lower teeth fit together when biting. If there is misalignment of the teeth or bite irregularities, such as an overbite, crossbite, or misaligned teeth, this can cause the jaw to move incorrectly, leading to bruxism.

Complications:

• Progressive enamel damage and tooth wear.
• Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to pain and stiffness.
• Increased dental sensitivity due to enamel wear.
• Tooth displacement or bite misalignment.

3. Sleep Disorders

Bruxism is closely related to certain sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea. During these episodes, breathing is repeatedly interrupted, causing the body to partially wake to restore breathing, and as a result, the jaw tends to clench.

Complications:

• Chronic fatigue due to poor sleep quality.
• Dental wear and other long-term damage.
• Increased risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders in the jaw.
• Difficulty chewing and persistent jaw pain.

4. Genetic Factors

Bruxism may also have a hereditary component. If one of the parents has bruxism, it is more likely that the children will develop the condition. Studies have shown that genetics can influence the tendency to have this disorder.

Complications:

• Higher likelihood of developing bruxism from an early age.
• Cumulative dental damage if not detected and treated in time.
• Need for preventive treatment from an early age to avoid permanent damage to the teeth.

5. Substance Use

The use of certain substances such as caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and recreational drugs is related to an increased risk of developing bruxism. These substances can increase tension in the body, especially at night, contributing to teeth clenching.

Complications:

• Increased muscle tension in the jaw and neck.
• Greater risk of dental wear and tooth damage from clenching or grinding with force.
• Possibility of insomnia or sleep disorders, worsening bruxism.
• Increased headaches and discomfort in the face.

6. Psychological Disorders

Some psychological disorders, such as depression, anxiety disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), may also be linked to bruxism. The emotional tension caused by these disorders can trigger teeth clenching or grinding.

Complications:

• Worsening of dental problems such as wear and tooth damage.
• Increased anxiety and depression symptoms due to the pain and discomfort caused by bruxism.
• Difficulties in daily life due to jaw, neck, and head pain.
• Additional psychological problems if not treated adequately, affecting quality of life.

7. Medications and Side Effects

Certain medications, especially antidepressants and drugs for treating psychiatric issues, can cause side effects such as bruxism. These side effects are more common in medications that affect the central nervous system, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Complications:

• Chronic tooth and jaw pain.
• Dental wear and increased sensitivity.
• Difficulty adjusting treatment if bruxism is linked to the medication.
• Increased risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

8. Hormonal Disorders or Age

In some individuals, bruxism can be related to hormonal disorders, such as those that occur during menopause or pregnancy, which alter the hormonal balance and can trigger teeth grinding. Additionally, older individuals may experience bruxism due to a decrease in the ability of teeth to withstand pressure with age.

Complications:

• Increased risk of tooth fractures due to dental fragility in older adults.
• Changes in the jawbone structure, causing pain and other TMJ-related disorders.
• Increased risk of other oral disorders, such as inflamed gums.

9. Diet and Lifestyle

An inadequate diet and lifestyle can also influence the onset of bruxism. Excessive consumption of foods and drinks containing caffeine, sugar, or acids can increase the risk of bruxism. Additionally, unhealthy habits such as inadequate sleep also play a role.

Complications:

• Tooth damage due to the consumption of acidic and sugary foods.
• Increased risk of dental cavities and other oral disorders.
• Greater muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and head due to lack of adequate rest.

Bruxism due to stress

Stress is one of the leading causes of bruxism, and many people resort to clenching their teeth as a physical response to stressful situations. This type of bruxism usually occurs at night, although it can also happen during the day, especially in moments of high tension. Stress-related bruxism can create a vicious cycle, as the pain caused by teeth grinding can increase stress levels, which in turn intensifies the problem. It is important to address stress through relaxation techniques, meditation, or cognitive-behavioral therapy to prevent bruxism from causing further damage.

Bruxism due to joint and bone abnormalities

Bruxism can also be related to issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or abnormalities in the bone structure of the jaw. Misalignment of the teeth and jaw bones can create incorrect pressure on the bite, leading to involuntary teeth grinding. The TMJ is a complex joint that allows jaw movement, and when it doesn’t function properly, it can cause pain, difficulty chewing, and contribute to bruxism. People with TMJ or jaw bone abnormalities may be more prone to developing bruxism and should seek appropriate treatment, including a comprehensive evaluation of dental occlusion.