What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a very common condition where people clench their top and bottom teeth together during sleep. It is estimated that more than eight percent of the population grind their teeth while they sleep. The Bruxism condition may cause damage to the teeth or even the jaw. Often times when someone has Bruxism the teeth grinding may be loud enough to wake their sleep partner.

Bruxism can wear down the enamel on the teeth, especially the back teeth. The jaw pain caused by Bruxism is due to the pressure on the muscles, tissues and clenching force on the structures around the jaw.

There are many treatments for Bruxism; it all depends on what will work for the individual. If Bruxism is being caused by a dental issue the dentist will be able to realign teeth or repair the problem. Many doctors have prescribed muscle relaxants or dopamine to keep the jaw from clenching during sleep. In the most severe cases Botox injections have been used to treat Bruxism.