Sleep bruxism is a sleep-related movement disorder involving rhythmic or sustained grinding or clenching of the teeth during sleep. It is common, frequently underdiagnosed, and can contribute to jaw pain, headaches, tooth wear, disrupted sleep, and other orofacial pain conditions.
Nighttime Grinding, Clenching & Oral Movement Disorders
Our providers evaluate and manage both sleep bruxism and awake bruxism, as well as other oral movement disorders that affect the jaw, facial muscles, and quality of life.
Because these conditions often occur alongside temporomandibular disorders and sleep-disordered breathing, our evaluation considers the entire clinical picture rather than treating symptoms in isolation.
The Connection to Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Research has strengthened the connection between sleep bruxism and obstructive sleep apnea. For patients affected by both conditions, treating the underlying sleep-disordered breathing may significantly reduce nighttime grinding and improve overall sleep quality.
As part of every evaluation, we screen for signs of sleep apnea and coordinate care with sleep medicine providers whenever appropriate.