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Bruxism, characterized by involuntary rhythmic contractions of the masseter muscles and excessive teeth grinding, is a commonly overlooked yet significant condition. Symptoms can manifest during wakefulness or sleep and encompass primary and secondary forms. Sleep-related bruxism, associated with normal sleep arousals and various underlying medical conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, Down syndrome, and medication effects, can cause considerable damage to teeth and dental work, resulting in morning jaw pain or fatigue, temporal headaches, and restricted motion of the temporomandibular joint. Although the diagnosis is primarily clinical, some patients with suspected sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea require polysomnography. Clinicians utilize a comprehensive treatment approach encompassing counseling, lifestyle management, oral devices, and medication management to address bruxism. Through this evidence-based review, healthcare professionals explore the latest advancements in understanding the causes of bruxism, including its multifactorial nature, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations. By examining prevalence rates and associated risk factors, participants recognize the importance of identifying and managing bruxism in clinical practice, particularly its implications for detecting potential sleep disorders, its impact on oral health, temporomandibular joint function, patient outcomes, and overall quality of life. By fostering collaboration and communication among healthcare professionals, participants gain the skills to coordinate efforts in the management of bruxism, ultimately enhancing their ability to deliver patient-centered care, improve diagnostic precision, and optimize treatment outcomes for individuals affected by this prevalent condition. Objectives: Identify the clinical manifestations and risk factors associated with bruxism. Implement evidence-based treatment modalities for managing bruxism, including behavioral techniques, oral devices, and pharmacotherapy. Assess the effectiveness of interventions in reducing bruxism-related symptoms and complications. Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as dentists, sleep specialists, and physical therapists, to optimize interdisciplinary care for patients with bruxism. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Bruxism, a prevalent condition, involves rhythmic contractions of the masseter muscles, accompanied by teeth grinding and mandible thrusting. Bruxism can manifest during sleep or wakefulness, each with various contributing factors.[1] Sleep bruxism is most common in children, affecting 15% to 40% of children and 8% to 10% of adults. Wake bruxism affects 22.1% to 31% of the population. The underlying cause is likely a centrally mediated phenomenon related to microarousals from sleep and activation of the autonomic nervous system.[2][3][4] Clinicians categorize bruxism as primary or secondary based on its association with underlying medical conditions. In severe cases, bruxism may cause considerable damage to teeth and dental work, leading to morning jaw pain, temporal headaches, and restricted motion of the temporomandibular joint. Generally, the diagnosis is clinical, but affected patients require a thorough evaluation to identify potential underlying sleep disorders or other associated risk factors. Healthcare professionals utilize a multifaceted treatment approach focusing on patient education, counseling, lifestyle modification, and dental appliances.

Potential complications of bruxism treatment include malocclusion, dental carries due to improper dental hygiene, temporomandibular disorders, and teeth staining. In addition, some occlusal devices only cover the anterior teeth. When the posterior teeth erupt in children wearing this type of device, they can develop an anterior open bite where a lack of overlap or contact between maxillary and mandibular incisors exists, while the posterior teeth are in occlusion. This development leads to unnecessary orthodontic interventions.

Bruxism is widespread during sleep and wakefulness, characterized by rhythmic contractions of the masseter muscles and teeth grinding. Depending on its association with underlying medical conditions, it can manifest as primary or secondary, with various factors contributing to its development. Sleep-related microarousals correlate with sleep bruxism, whereas stress and heightened alertness often cause awake bruxism. Risk factors include sleep apnea, anxiety, genetic predisposition, sleep disorders, medication use, and neurologic and psychiatric disorders. Given the diverse range of potential underlying comorbidities, effective care coordination necessitates integrating services across healthcare settings and disciplines, ensuring smooth transitions and continuity of care. The diagnosis primarily relies on clinical evaluation, although polysomnography may be necessary for patients suspected of having sleep disorders. Treatment focuses on preventing tooth damage and easing associated symptoms. Clinicians employ counseling and behavioral interventions to encourage patients to abstain from substances such as alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, especially before bedtime. Clinicians may also recommend lifestyle modifications or medication adjustments as needed. Additional treatment options encompass oral devices, pharmacological therapies, and investigational treatments such as botulinum toxin injections. Addressing comorbid obstructive sleep apnea is paramount for affected patients. A collaborative approach involving physicians, advanced practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, dental clinicians, and other healthcare professionals is essential for enhancing patient-centered care. Each healthcare team member contributes unique skills and expertise to the care process. By harnessing their skills, adopting collaborative strategies, promoting interprofessional communication, and coordinating care effectively, healthcare professionals can improve overall patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs and morbidity, and elevate team performance in managing bruxism.