2 Common Medical Conditions Linked to Bruxism

Bruxism, or grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw, is usually a sign of stress. Anxiety and worry may cause individuals to clench their jaw and teeth unconsciously. Bruxism can even occur at night while you are asleep. Many people simply wear a night guard to protect their teeth from damage due to the inadvertent clenching and grinding associated with bruxism.

But did you know that stress alone is not the only reason you may suffer from bruxism? You may not experience stress but still clench your teeth and jaw, which can damage your teeth and cause headaches. Here are two common medical conditions with links to bruxism.

1. Sleep Disorders

While experts are unsure how the two are linked, sleep disorders and bruxism often occur together. Sleep disorders that involve movements like restless leg syndrome and sleep-related leg cramps seem to coincide with other uncontrolled body movements like jaw clenching and teeth grinding.

Additionally, other sleep disorders like sleep apnea seem to coincide with bruxism. Repeated stops and starts to your breathing and sleep cycle can make you wake up feeling tired. Collapsed airways during sleep apnea that prompt repeated stops and starts may be to blame for tight jaw muscles as well the next morning. In this way, bruxism is the body's unconscious reaction to prevent airflow restriction.

2. Acid Reflux

Stomach acid that enters your esophagus from your stomach is called acid reflux. The acidic nature of stomach fluid irritates your throat. You may have a burning sensation in your throat and chest. Acid reflux can happen after a larger or spicy meal and worsen when you lay down.

Acid reflux can cause bruxism while you sleep. Your body may prompt you to swallow in an attempt to create saliva to help neutralize acids present in the throat. Teeth grinding often occurs immediately prior to a swallow as part of this reflexive attempt. You may feel sore jaw muscles as well as lingering burning from the acid reflux in the morning.

You may suffer from bruxism if you have a sleep disorder or experience bouts of acid reflux. Morning fatigue and an irritated throat associated with these two conditions are frustrating, but bruxism can only increase your discomfort.

You don't have to face sore jaw muscles, headaches, and worn or damaged teeth from bruxism. Dental night guards that fit over your teeth help protect them from the side effects of grinding teeth.

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