THE VARIOUS CAUSES OF BRUXISM

The Various Causes of Bruxism: No Single Factor Is Solely Responsible

Bruxism is a condition in which a person grinds, clenches, or gnashes their teeth, either during the day or while sleeping. Recent estimates suggest that approximately 22% of the global population may experience daytime or nighttime bruxism.

No single factor is solely responsible for all reported cases. Bruxism is often multifactorial, with common contributing factors including:

• Stress and anxiety;

• Certain medications;

• Stimulants;

• Neurological disorders;

• Food additives.

Understanding possible contributors can help individuals and clinicians identify risk factors and develop a more appropriate management plan.

1. Stress and Anxiety

Short-term mental stress and long-term anxiety are common contributors to tooth grinding and jaw clenching.

When the body experiences stress or anxiety, the fight-or-flight response activates the sympathetic nervous system. This neurological response can increase involuntary muscle tension, including tension in the jaw and chewing muscles.

As a result, people may clench their teeth unconsciously during the day or grind their teeth during sleep.

Helpful Strategies

If stress or anxiety appears to contribute to bruxism, helpful approaches may include:

• Maintaining a consistent sleep routine;

• Practicing deep breathing, meditation, or relaxation exercises;

• Exercising regularly;

• Reducing caffeine and alcohol, especially later in the day;

• Becoming more aware of daytime jaw clenching;

• Keeping the teeth apart when not eating or speaking;

• Seeking mental-health support when needed.

2. Neurological Disorders Associated With Bruxism

A number of neurological disorders may cause bruxism or are considered to be associated with it. These conditions may affect motor control, muscle activity, nerve signaling, or jaw movement patterns.

The source material lists the following associated conditions:

• Brain injuries;

• Parkinson’s disease;

• Huntington’s disease;

• Rett syndrome;

• Intellectual disability;

• Anoxic encephalopathy;

• Cerebellar hemorrhage;

• Idiopathic, tardive, and post-traumatic cranial dystonia.

Having one of these conditions does not necessarily mean that a person will develop bruxism. Likewise, having bruxism does not mean that a person has a neurological disorder. However, grinding accompanied by involuntary movements, tremors, muscle stiffness, swallowing difficulties, or speech changes should be evaluated by a medical professional.

3. Medications

Bruxism may occur as a side effect of certain medication categories, particularly medications that affect neurotransmitters, sleep patterns, or muscle activity.

1. Antidepressants

Examples include:

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs);

• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Some individuals may experience jaw tension, clenching, or sleep-related grinding after using these medications.

2. Stimulants

Examples include:

• Adderall;

• Ritalin;

• Amphetamines;

• Methylphenidate.

Stimulants may increase nervous-system activity and contribute to muscle tension or teeth clenching.

3. Anticonvulsants

Examples include:

• Phenytoin;

• Gabapentin.

If bruxism begins or worsens after starting, changing, or increasing a medication, discuss the symptoms with the prescribing clinician or dentist.

Do not stop, reduce, or change prescribed medication without professional guidance.

4. Managing Possible Causes of Bruxism

Because bruxism often has multiple contributing factors, management should be tailored to the individual. Useful steps may include:

1. Schedule a dental evaluation
   A dentist can assess tooth wear, enamel damage, cracks, gum health, jaw function, and bite-related concerns.

2. Consider a custom night guard
   For sleep bruxism, a professionally fitted occlusal splint or night guard may reduce direct tooth-to-tooth contact and help protect teeth from wear.

3. Address stress and sleep quality
   Managing anxiety, chronic stress, and sleep disruptions may help reduce clenching and grinding.

4. Review medications with a clinician
   If medication-related bruxism is suspected, speak with the prescribing clinician before making any changes.

5. Evaluate neurological or sleep-related symptoms
   Medical or sleep assessment may be appropriate when grinding occurs alongside unusual movements, persistent jaw pain, severe headaches, loud snoring, nighttime choking, or excessive daytime sleepiness.

Final Thoughts

Bruxism is not caused by one factor alone. Stress, anxiety, neurological conditions, medication effects, stimulants, and lifestyle influences may all play a role.

If you frequently clench your jaw, grind your teeth at night, wake with jaw soreness, experience tooth sensitivity, or notice visible tooth wear, consult a dentist. Identifying contributing factors and combining dental protection, stress management, and professional medical guidance can help protect your teeth, gums, and jaw over the long term.