Bruxism is the technical term for involuntary teeth grinding or clenching, which most often occurs during sleep but can also occur during the day. It is a repetitive and unintentional movement of the jaw that can lead to tooth wear, muscle and joint pain, or sleep disorders.
Bruxism can be caused by various factors.
The most common causes are stress and psychological tension. Other causes include sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnea), an unbalanced bite or orthodontic abnormalities, excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol, and neurological or psychological factors.
The cause is often a combination of several factors, which is why individual assessment is important.
Teeth grinding may not be immediately noticeable, but over time it can cause:
For some patients, the first sign may be a warning from their dentist.
The treatment of bruxism depends on its cause and severity.
Most commonly includes:
Custom-made night guards (splints) that protect teeth from further damage.
Furthermore, physiotherapy and relaxation exercises help relieve muscle tension. Other options include psychological or relaxation therapy, orthodontic or prosthetic solutions for malocclusion or missing teeth, or pharmacological support as recommended by a doctor.
Early diagnosis and a comprehensive approach significantly increase the success rate of treatment.