A 2005 survey conducted by the Children’s Hospital Boston Dental Clinic collected data on childhood bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) from nearly 900 families. 38% of these families reported having children that engaged in night-time teeth grinding and clenching. Children whose parents brux were 1.8% more likely to engage in night-time bruxism. A 2013 study revealed that 5% of the population reported experiencing night-time bruxism, and 10% reported diurnal (day time) teeth clenching and grinding. However, day time bruxism may simply be more easily diagnosed than night time bruxism rather than more common. Bruxism is a fairly common problem with numerous causes, and appropriate treatments are almost as varied as these causes. It’s essential for patients who brux to seek appropriate treatment since bruxism causes or worsens numerous oral health concerns including dental wear, chips, cracks, damaged restorations, and TMJ disorder. If you experience day or night time bruxism, don’t hesitate to contact your South Shore Dental Care team for treatment recommendations.
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