Sleep Bruxism

Bruxism is an involuntary, forceful grinding of teeth during sleep that affects 10-20% of the population. The client is usually unaware of the problem. The typical age of onset is 17-20 years, and spontaneous remission usually occurs by age 40. Sex distribution appears to be equal. In many cases, the diagnosis is made during dental examination, damage is minor, and no treatment is indicated. In more severe cases, treatment with a rubber tooth guard is necessary to prevent disfiguring tooth injury. Stress management or, in some cases, biofeedback, can be useful when bruxism is a manifestation of psychological stress. There are anecdotal reports of benefit using benzodiazepines. (Please see your local physician first for baseline assessment. :)