bruksizm

Bruksism, also known as bruxism, is a repetitive jaw-muscle activity that results in the grinding or clenching of teeth. The condition can occur during sleep (sleep bruxism) or while awake (awake bruxism). It is a disorder of the masticatory system and is classified as a parafunctional activity rather than a voluntary one. Epidemiological studies estimate that 8–31 % of adults exhibit some degree of bruxism, with a higher prevalence among adolescents and young adults. Women are slightly more affected than men, and prevalence rises in populations with high stress levels or certain psychiatric disorders.

The exact etiology remains unclear, but bruxism is thought to arise from a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and developmental factors. Possible contributors include central nervous system dysregulation, genetic predisposition, sleep‑disordered breathing, stress, anxiety, depression, irregularity of occlusal (bite) relationships, and certain medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

Diagnostic assessment is primarily clinical. Dental examination reveals tooth wear facets, enamel abrasion, cracked teeth, and jaw‑muscle soreness. In sleep bruxism, polysomnographic recordings and electromyographic monitoring of jaw muscles are the gold standard, whereas awake bruxism often relies on patient self‑report and occlusal splint wear.

Management targets the underlying factors and reduction of muscle activity. Behavioral interventions, including stress‑management techniques and habit reversal training, are effective for awake bruxism. For sleep bruxism, occlusal splints (night guards) that redistribute forces and reduce tooth contact are widely used; they also provide a protective barrier against tooth wear. Pharmacological options, such as muscle relaxants, anxiolytics, or botulinum toxin injections, are considered in refractory cases. Regular dental review to monitor bite changes and prevent erosion remains essential.

In addition to therapeutic strategies, prevention focuses on reducing modifiable risk factors: managing stress, avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bedtime, and correcting malocclusion where appropriate. Early recognition and multidisciplinary treatment involving dentists, sleep specialists, and mental‑health professionals contribute to improved outcomes for individuals with bruksism.