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.
The Various Causes of
BRUXISM
NO SINGLE FACTOR IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE
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
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:
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
