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The Various Causes of
BRUXISM

NO SINGLE FACTOR IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE

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Bruxism is a condition where someone grinds, clenches, or gnashes their teeth; recent studies estimate 22% of the global population suffer from either day or night time bruxism.

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No single factor is solely responsible for all reported cases; however the most common causes include stress/anxiety, medications, stimulants, neurological disorders and food additives.

Stress & Anxiety

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When experiencing short term mental stress or long term anxiety, the body's fight-or-flight response activates the sympathetic nervous system. This neurological response increases involuntary muscle tension which can include the muscles of the jaw.

Neurological Disorders Associated With Bruxism:

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A number of neurological disorders can either cause bruxism or are considered to be associated with it.

  • Brain injuries
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Huntington's disease
  • Rett syndrome
  • Mental retardation
  • Anoxic encephalopathy
  • Cerebellar hemorrhage
  • Idiopathic, tardive, and posttraumatic cranial dystonia

Medications:

Bruxism is a side effect of select medication categories.

  • Antidepressants: SSRI’s & SNRI’s
  • Stimulants: Adderall & Ritalin (amphetamines),
    Methylphenidate
  • Anticonvulsants: Phenytoin & Gabapentin
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