Medical Encyclopaedia › Bruxism (short definition)
In brief: In bruxism, the teeth are unconsciously clenched or ground together, or the lower jaw is tensed. This can happen during the day (awake bruxism) or during sleep (sleep bruxism). Bruxism is common and not always pathological; it needs treatment when it damages teeth, muscles or jaw joints or causes symptoms.
Causes
Bruxism is now regarded mainly as a behaviour controlled by the central nervous system and not primarily as the result of faulty tooth contacts. During the day, it is often linked to stress, tension and concentration. Sleep bruxism frequently occurs in connection with brief arousals during sleep. Contributing factors can be psychological strain, smoking, alcohol, a lot of caffeine, certain medicines such as some antidepressants, drugs, and sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnoea. In children, grinding is common and often disappears by itself.
Signs and consequences
- worn, flat chewing surfaces, cracks, chipped fillings or enamel
- sensitive teeth and damage to the tooth necks
- morning jaw pain or headaches, tension in the chewing, neck and shoulder muscles
- enlarged chewing muscles, tooth impressions on the tongue or cheeks
- jaw joint complaints up to temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD)
- audible grinding, which is often noticed first by partners
Diagnosis
The dentist asks about symptoms and habits and examines the teeth, muscles and jaw joints. According to an international consensus, a distinction is made between possible, probable and definite bruxism; sleep bruxism is only confirmed with measurements in a sleep laboratory or with special measuring devices. If sleep apnoea is suspected, for example with loud snoring, pauses in breathing or severe daytime sleepiness, this should be assessed by a doctor.
Treatment
There is no cure in the strict sense; the aim is to prevent damage and relieve symptoms:
- Occlusal splint: an individually made plastic splint, usually for night-time, protects the teeth from wear and can relieve the muscles; as a rule, it does not stop the grinding itself.
- Self-observation and behaviour change: during the day, pay attention to a relaxed jaw position (lips closed, teeth apart) and use reminders.
- Stress management and relaxation, with psychotherapeutic support if needed.
- Physiotherapy and self-exercises for muscle and joint complaints.
- Other options in selected cases: injections of botulinum toxin into the chewing muscles (not approved for this use in Germany) or short-term medication after medical consideration.
Damaged teeth are restored with fillings, crowns or other restorations, ideally only once the bruxism is under control.
Costs and important to know
A medically necessary occlusal splint is usually covered by German statutory health insurers; more elaborate splints or additional services may be charged privately. Splints should be checked regularly. In the case of additional complaints such as jaw joint pain, restricted mouth opening or severe headache, joint care by dentistry, medicine and physiotherapy is advisable.
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), Occlusal splint, Jaw joint, Chewing muscles, Masseter muscle, Attrition, Abfraction, Sleep apnoea, Botulinum toxin
Sources
- AWMF-S3-Leitlinie Diagnostik und Behandlung von Bruxismus (DGFDT, DGZMK)
- Lobbezoo F et al.: International consensus on the assessment of bruxism: Report of a work in progress. J Oral Rehabil 2018
- Lobbezoo F et al.: Bruxism defined and graded: an international consensus. J Oral Rehabil 2013
- Gemeinsamer Bundesausschuss (G-BA): Behandlungsrichtlinie für die vertragszahnärztliche Versorgung
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor, dentist or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.