Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Bruxism is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth. This condition usually occurs during sleep, and most people are unaware that they are doing it. This non-functional habit can negatively affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), dental structures, and surrounding soft tissues. Whether it happens during sleep or stressful moments throughout the day, bruxism is one of the most common dental problems in modern times.
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
There are multiple factors involved in the development of bruxism. These can be examined under three main categories:
Psychological Factors
- Stress and anxiety: The most common cause. Suppressed stress during the day can lead to jaw muscle contractions during sleep.
- Emotional tension: Suppressed anger, restlessness, and aggressive personality traits can trigger teeth grinding behavior.
- Sleep disorders: Bruxism may occur alongside other parasomnias such as sleepwalking, sleep talking, and nightmares.
Systemic and Neurological Factors
- Central nervous system disorders
- Diseases such as Parkinson’s and Huntington’s
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially magnesium and vitamin B
- Side effects of certain medications, particularly antidepressants and psychiatric drugs
Local Oral Factors
- Occlusal disorders (malocclusion)
- Poorly fitted fillings and dentures
- Loss of teeth leading to imbalanced chewing
- Habit of keeping foreign objects in the mouth
What Are the Symptoms of Teeth Grinding?
Over time, bruxism can cause damage to oral structures and lead to general health problems. The most common symptoms include:
Jaw and Facial Symptoms
- Tightness, spasms, and pain in the jaw muscles
- Clicking, popping, or locking sensations in the jaw joint
- Waking up with fatigue and headaches
- Chronic pain on one side of the face
- A feeling of pressure or pain around the ears
Dental and Gum Symptoms
- Wear, flattening, or cracking of tooth enamel
- Fractures in fillings or prostheses
- Increased tooth sensitivity, especially to cold
- Tooth mobility and spacing
- Gum recession and notching near the gum line
- Fibrous lines inside the cheeks and frequent cheek biting
Sleep-Related Symptoms
- Grinding noises noticed by a partner or family member
- Waking up with jaw pain
- Decreased sleep quality
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Teeth Grinding?
If left untreated, bruxism can lead to permanent damage to oral structures and significantly decrease quality of life.
- Increased risk of tooth decay due to enamel erosion
- Tooth loss and the need for dental prosthetics
- Permanent structural damage to the jaw joint
- Facial asymmetry and aesthetic issues
- Jaw muscle hypertrophy over time
How Is Teeth Grinding Diagnosed?
Bruxism is diagnosed based on the patient's complaints and clinical examination. The dentist evaluates typical wear patterns on tooth surfaces and tightness in the jaw muscles. When necessary, imaging of the jaw joint (panoramic X-ray, MRI) may be used to support diagnosis. In cases of sleep-related bruxism, a polysomnography (sleep study) may be required for confirmation.
Treatment Methods for Bruxism
The treatment of teeth grinding (bruxism) is tailored to the individual based on the underlying causes. The goal is to both prevent further damage and alleviate existing symptoms. One of the most common treatment options is the use of a night guard (splint).
In cases where bruxism is stress-related, psychological support, relaxation exercises, and psychiatric consultation—if necessary—are recommended. Additionally, orthodontic or prosthetic adjustments may play an important role in treating local issues such as bite misalignment or poorly fitted dental prostheses.
