Bruxism (teeth grinding) Bruxism is chronic, involuntary
grinding or clenching of teeth. It usually occurs during sleep,
but it may also occur while awake. The exact cause of bruxism is
unknown, but it is believed to be related to: - Stress and
anxiety - Abnormal alignment of the teeth or jaws Risk factors
that increases your chance of getting bruxism include: - Chronic
stress or anxiety - Aggressive or competitive personality -
Abuse of drugs or alcohol (especially methamphetamines) - Post-
traumatic stress disorder - Age: 40 or younger; especially
common in women aged 27-40 - Family member with bruxism - Facial
or oral trauma - Use of psychiatric medications, especially
antidepressants - Prior serious head injury Symptoms may
include: - Grinding sounds during sleep - Teeth that are
sensitive to heat, cold, or brushing - Tense facial or jaw
muscles - Hairline cracks of the enamel on some teeth - Sore
teeth - Inflammation of the gums ( gingivitis) - Headache,
especially when waking in the morning - Damage to t