Bruxism: what it is, types, causes, treatments and tips

Bruxism is one of the most common yet often underestimated dental problems. Many people have it without knowing, since it does not always show clear symptoms at first.

This disorder consists of involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, which can happen by day or by night and can leave you with a headache when you wake up.

Although in its early stages it does not always cause significant discomfort, if left untreated it can lead to serious damage to the teeth, muscles and jaw joints.

What bruxism is

Bruxism is defined as a disorder that makes you clench, grind or gnash your teeth unconsciously. In other words, it is a parafunctional activity, since it serves no purpose related to the normal functions of the mouth, such as chewing or speaking.

The habit comes in two main forms: during the day (awake bruxism) or during sleep (sleep bruxism). In both cases it puts excessive pressure on the teeth and jaw.

What makes this disorder so important to treat is that, being involuntary, it can go unnoticed for a long time, causing progressive damage that in some cases is irreversible.

Types of bruxism: awake and sleep

There are two main forms of bruxism, each with its own characteristics and triggers:

• Awake bruxism: more common in people with high levels of stress, anxiety or emotional tension. It shows up as the habit of clenching the teeth during activities that require concentration, such as working, studying or even driving.
• Sleep bruxism: this happens while we sleep, which makes it harder to detect without the help of a professional or the observation of a partner or family member. Sleep bruxism is frequently associated with sleep disorders such as obstructive apnoea.

Causes of bruxism

Bruxism is a complex disorder that has no single cause. It stems from a combination of physical, psychological and, in some cases, genetic factors.

Understanding these factors is key to tackling the problem effectively and personally.

Emotional and psychological factors

Stress and anxiety are by far the main causes of bruxism. In today’s society, full of work demands, personal problems and a fast pace of life, it is common for emotional tension to show itself physically, and one of the most usual ways is through clenching the jaw.

• Chronic stress: people with high stress levels are more likely to develop bruxism, especially during sleep.
• Anxiety and nervousness: these emotions overload the muscles of the body, including the jaw muscles.
• Perfectionist or competitive personalities: these people are more likely to tense the jaw, especially during activities that demand a lot of concentration.

Habits and lifestyle

Lifestyle also plays a crucial part in the development of bruxism. Certain habits can worsen the symptoms or even trigger the problem:

• Caffeine and energy drinks: these substances increase nervous system activity, intensifying jaw clenching.
• Alcohol and tobacco: these substances have a negative effect on the central nervous system, making it harder for the muscles to relax.
• Lack of proper rest: sleeping less than you need, or sleeping badly, can increase the risk of sleep bruxism.

Changing some of these habits can make a big difference to preventing and managing the disorder.

Related medical conditions

In some cases bruxism is associated with other medical conditions, making it one more symptom of a bigger problem:

• Sleep apnoea: interruptions in breathing during sleep are linked to episodes of sleep bruxism.
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): people with ADHD are more likely to develop bruxism, especially the awake type.
• Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders: these diseases can cause involuntary muscle tension, including in the jaw.

Genetic influence

Genetics can also play an important part. If close relatives have or have had bruxism, you are more likely to develop it too.

This is particularly true of sleep bruxism, which seems to have a hereditary predisposition.

Although we cannot change our genes, knowing this factor lets us watch for the first signs and look for solutions early.

Symptoms of bruxism

Bruxism can be a silent disorder in its early stages, but its symptoms become obvious as the habit persists.

It mainly affects the teeth and jaw and, in more severe cases, even overall quality of life because of chronic pain.

Recognising these symptoms is key to seeking professional help in time.

Signs in the teeth and jaw

The most direct impact of bruxism is seen in the teeth and the jaw muscles:

• Tooth wear: the teeth start to flatten and, in extreme cases, fracture or wear down until the dentine is exposed, causing sensitivity.
• Tooth sensitivity: you will notice discomfort with cold, hot or sweet food and drink.
• Muscle tension in the jaw: the muscles can feel stiff, especially on waking.
• Tired or sore jaw: common after a night of grinding or a day of constant clenching.

Facial pain and headaches

Bruxism does not only affect the mouth; it can also cause:

• Headaches: usually a dull ache starting at the temples, caused by excessive pressure on the facial muscles.
• Neck and shoulder pain: jaw tension can radiate to other areas of the body.
• Facial discomfort: including general tenderness around the jaw and cheeks.

Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

The TMJ, responsible for jaw movement, can also be affected:

• Clicking or noises when opening the mouth: these sounds can be a sign of damage to the joint.
• Pain when chewing: sometimes the pain makes normal eating difficult.
• Limited jaw movement: it can become hard to open the mouth fully or keep it open for long.

Diagnosing bruxism

Detecting bruxism requires a careful assessment, since patients are not always aware of the habit. An early diagnosis can prevent more serious damage.

Recognising the symptoms

The first step in diagnosing bruxism is identifying the symptoms the patient experiences:

• Do you wake up with jaw pain or a headache?
• Has anyone told you that you grind your teeth in your sleep?
• Do your teeth feel more sensitive than usual?

Answering “yes” to these questions may be a sign of bruxism and a signal that you need to see a specialist.

Dental assessment

At our dental clinic in Alicante we carry out a thorough examination that includes:

• Checking for tooth wear: we look for flattened or cracked teeth, or teeth that have lost enamel.
• Palpating the jaw: we check for pain or tension in the facial and jaw muscles.
• Joint mobility tests: to check the state of the TMJ.

Additional tests such as polysomnography

In some cases more advanced studies are needed:

• Polysomnography: this sleep study monitors muscle activity during the night and can confirm sleep bruxism.
• Electromyography: measures the electrical activity of the jaw muscles, helping to quantify the intensity of the habit.

Treatments for bruxism

Treating bruxism focuses on three main goals: protecting the teeth, reducing muscle tension and tackling the underlying causes.

The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the case and the patient’s needs.

Night guards or mouth guards

They are the most common and effective treatment for bruxism. These guards are custom-made devices worn over the teeth, especially at night.

• Benefits: they protect the enamel from wear and reduce pressure on the jaw.
• Customisation: at our clinic we use advanced technology to design guards that fit your mouth perfectly.

Stress management and psychological therapies

Since stress is a major cause of bruxism, tackling it directly can be very useful:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy: helps manage the thoughts and emotions that trigger clenching.
• Relaxation techniques: yoga, meditation and breathing exercises are excellent tools for reducing daily tension.

Medical options: medication and botox

In more serious cases, medical treatments can be considered:

• Muscle relaxant medication: reduces muscle activity during the night.
• Botox injections: relax the jaw muscles and reduce the intensity of bruxism. A modern, effective solution that we offer at our clinic.

Restorative dental treatments

When bruxism has caused significant damage to the teeth, they need repairing:

• Crowns: replace lost enamel and restore function.
• Porcelain veneers: a cosmetic solution that restores the natural appearance of the teeth.
• Full reconstructions: in advanced cases, several techniques are combined to repair all the affected teeth.

Tips for preventing and managing bruxism

Preventing bruxism is not always possible, especially when genetic or medical factors are involved, but adopting certain habits and strategies can reduce its impact and improve quality of life.

Here are some key recommendations.

Relaxation techniques and stress management

Stress is one of the main causes of bruxism, so learning to manage it is essential:

• Practise relaxing activities such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises.
• Consider guided relaxation therapy or mindfulness sessions.
• Make time for your hobbies and try to switch off from daily responsibilities.

Lifestyle changes

A few adjustments to your daily routine can make a big difference:

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and tobacco: these substances make bruxism worse by stimulating the nervous system.
• Create a relaxing environment before bed: switch off screens, listen to soft music or read a book.
• Watch your posture: poor posture, especially at work, can increase jaw tension.

The importance of regular dental check-ups

Regular visits to the dentist are essential for catching the signs of bruxism in time and avoiding complications. At each check-up the dentist can assess the state of your teeth and jaw.

Catching tooth wear in its early stages makes it possible to take preventive measures before the damage gets worse.

Consequences of untreated bruxism

Bruxism may seem harmless at first, but ignoring it can lead to serious problems affecting dental and general health.

Permanent dental damage

Constant grinding and clenching can cause:

• Fractured teeth.
• Loss of natural tooth structure, which may require treatments such as crowns or implants.

Enamel wear

The enamel that protects the teeth wears away over time, causing:

• Extreme tooth sensitivity: especially with cold, hot or sweet food and drink.
• Greater vulnerability to decay and other dental problems.

Chronic TMJ problems

If bruxism is not treated, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can suffer irreversible damage:

• Chronic pain that spreads to the neck and shoulders.
• Limited jaw movement, making simple actions such as chewing or speaking difficult.

When to see a specialist

Recognising the signs of bruxism and seeking professional help in time can prevent serious complications and improve your quality of life.

Warning signs

It is important to see the dentist if you notice:

How often to visit the dentist

Even if you have no obvious symptoms, it is advisable to see the dentist at least once a year for a full check-up.

If you have already been diagnosed with bruxism, visits may be more frequent to adjust guards or assess the progress of treatment.

Bruxism in children

Although bruxism can also affect children, its causes and treatments are usually different from those in adults.

Differences from bruxism in adults

In children, bruxism is usually related to:

• Teething: the pain or discomfort of teeth coming through can cause temporary grinding.
• Emotional stress or changes in routine: situations such as starting school or family changes can trigger it.

The good news is that in most cases childhood bruxism disappears with time and causes no permanent damage.

Specific treatments for children

If bruxism persists or causes problems, treatments may include:

• Soft guards: specially designed to protect children’s teeth.
• Relaxation techniques: adapted to their age, such as breathing exercises or calming games.
• Regular check-ups: periodic checks to make sure there is no damage to the teeth or jaw.

Advanced treatments at Arroyo & Hernández Dental Clinic

At our clinic we offer cutting-edge solutions designed to tackle each case of bruxism effectively and personally.

Cutting-edge technology: custom guards

We use digital scanners and 3D technology to create guards that fit each patient’s mouth perfectly, guaranteeing comfort and maximum protection.

Multidisciplinary care for complex cases

Our team is made up of specialists in different areas, which lets us approach bruxism cases from an integrated perspective, combining various dental specialities.

Benefits of being treated at our clinic

• Accurate diagnoses thanks to advanced tools such as the intraoral scanner and the dental CT scan.
• Personalised treatment plans.
• Continuous follow-up to ensure optimal results.

Frequently asked questions about bruxism