Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment (Cleveland Clinic)
Where this fits: Peri Jaw: Grinding, Clenching, and the Rage Connection
Claims this source supports
- Bruxism is when you clench, grind or gnash your teeth, usually subconsciously, while awake or asleep.
- Symptoms can include headaches or facial pain especially in the morning, earaches, sore jaw muscles, tinnitus, pain when eating, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth.
- Risk factors include stress and anxiety, depression and anxiety disorders, smoking, alcohol, high caffeine intake, certain medications including SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), and sleep apnea.
- Untreated bruxism can lead to dental damage like tooth erosion and cracked teeth, TMJ disorder, facial pain, and sleep disorders.
- Dentists typically diagnose bruxism from a physical exam and symptoms; a sleep study (polysomnography) can provide a definitive diagnosis.