Bruxism, defined as the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, occurs in two distinct forms: awake bruxism and sleep bruxism. According to the latest European Consensus statement, both types share certain characteristics but differ in their triggers and underlying causes.

Awake Bruxism is primarily associated with psychological factors. It tends to be linked to emotional states such as stress, anxiety, and concentration. During the day, clenching teeth unconsciously while performing tasks occurs, sometimes in response to tension or concentration. Habits develop and jaw thrusting and postural influences also contribute to awake bruxism, making it a condition often associated with heightened states of mental alertness or focus.

Sleep Bruxism, on the other hand, is classified as a sleep-related movement disorder. Its cause is more complex, involving a combination of brain activity, sleep arousals, and airway disturbances. Research suggests that sleep bruxism is associated with micro-arousals during sleep, changes in chemical brain activity, and even links to disorders like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors, such as smoking and caffeine intake, may also increase the likelihood of sleep bruxism.

While both forms of bruxism can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, and other dental issues, their different origins highlight the importance of understanding and addressing both psychological factors for awake bruxism and physiological factors for sleep bruxism.

We will take a careful history of your habits and sleep patterns if we observe signs of tooth wear that could be related to bruxism.    Treatment can involve:

• Constructing a protective bite splint to wear at night. 

• Botox into clenching muscles to alleviate tension.

• Rebuilding severely worn teeth. 

• A sleep screen or sleep study to investigate microaropusals and obstructive sleep apnoea.