{"id":334,"date":"2025-12-15T13:52:06","date_gmt":"2025-12-15T12:52:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dentsanaclinic.com\/?p=334"},"modified":"2025-12-15T13:52:06","modified_gmt":"2025-12-15T12:52:06","slug":"bruxismo-causas-sintomas-y-tratamiento-dental","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dentsanaclinic.com\/en\/bruxism-causes-symptoms-and-treatment-dental\/","title":{"rendered":"Bruxism: what it is, why it happens and how it affects your oral health"},"content":{"rendered":"

The bruxism<\/b><\/span> is a problem that is more common than it seems and, in many cases, goes unnoticed for years. Clenching or grinding of the teeth, especially unconsciously, can lead to tooth wear, muscle pain and other oral problems if not treated in time.<\/p>\n

In this article we explain what is bruxism<\/b><\/span>, why it occurs<\/b><\/span>how it can affect your oral health and what options are available from a dental point of view.<\/p>\n

What is bruxism<\/b><\/h2>\n

Bruxism is the involuntary habit of clenching or grinding teeth<\/b><\/span>usually without being aware of it. It can occur both during the day and at night.<\/p>\n

From a dental point of view, bruxism is a excessive stress on teeth, muscles and joints<\/b><\/span>This can have multiple long-term consequences.<\/p>\n

Types of bruxism<\/b><\/h2>\n

Nocturnal bruxism<\/b><\/h3>\n

It occurs while we sleep and is usually related to stress, anxiety or sleep disturbances. As it is unconscious, it is the most difficult to detect.<\/p>\n

Daytime bruxism<\/b><\/h3>\n

It appears during the day, usually associated with situations of tension, concentration or nervousness. In this case, the patient can learn to identify and control the habit.<\/p>\n

Why bruxism occurs<\/b><\/h2>\n

Bruxism has no single cause. It is usually the result of a combination of several factors:<\/p>\n

Stress and anxiety<\/b><\/h3>\n

This is one of the most frequent factors. The nervous system directly influences the muscular activity of the jaw.<\/p>\n

Bite disorders<\/b><\/h3>\n

Malocclusion may encourage dental clenching as a compensatory mechanism.<\/p>\n

Sleep disorders<\/b><\/h3>\n

Nocturnal bruxism is related to micro-awakenings and sleep disturbances.<\/p>\n

Neuromuscular factors<\/b><\/h3>\n

Some people have increased muscle hyperactivity in the jaw area.<\/p>\n

Habits and lifestyle<\/b><\/h3>\n

The consumption of caffeine, alcohol or tobacco can increase muscle activity and aggravate bruxism.<\/p>\n

How bruxism affects oral health<\/b><\/h2>\n

If left untreated, bruxism can have serious consequences:<\/p>\n

Dental wear<\/b><\/h3>\n

Constant rubbing causes progressive wear of the enamel, making the teeth shorter, flatter and more sensitive.<\/p>\n

Dental fractures and fissures<\/b><\/h3>\n

Excessive force can cause microfractures, broken fillings or even tooth fractures.<\/p>\n

Dental sensitivity<\/b><\/h3>\n

Loss of enamel leaves the dentine exposed, increasing sensitivity to cold, heat or sweet foods.<\/p>\n

Muscle and jaw pain<\/b><\/h3>\n

Pain in the jaw, neck, head or even ears is common.<\/p>\n

Temporomandibular joint problems<\/b><\/h3>\n

Bruxism can trigger or aggravate TMJ disorders, leading to clicking, locking or limited opening.<\/p>\n

How to tell if you have bruxism<\/b><\/h2>\n

Many people are unaware that they suffer from it. Some common signs are:<\/p>\n