During sleep, the reflex part of chewing is active while the brain is unable to control it and the result is bruxism. Children with bruxism tend to grind or clench their teeth at night, while adults may grind or clench their teeth either during the day or at night. Many people who have bruxism do not know that the condition is present.

A sleeping partner or parent may notice the condition before the bruxer. Recognizing the symptoms and signs of bruxism may help to detect the condition early before more serious problems arise.

The symptoms of bruxism may include teeth grinding, jaw clenching, worn down or chipped teeth, worn tooth enamel, sensitivity in teeth, jaw pain or tightness, earache, headache, worn or painful tissue on the inside of the cheek and facial pain. The cause of bruxism is not yet fully understood, but some causes of bruxism in adults may include stress, anxiety, anger, frustration or hyperactive or competitive personality types.

In children, bruxism may be caused by the development and growth of the jaw and jaw muscles or the teeth. Children's teeth may not yet be properly aligned which may cause bruxism in some children.

Treatment for bruxism may not be necessary. Many children may outgrow the condition by adolescence or the condition may be mild enough that treatment may not be required. Some possible treatments for bruxism, however, include stress management, mouth guards, dental splints, correction of misaligned teeth, jaw and tongue behavior therapy to condition the mouth not to brux or muscle relaxing medications. A doctor may be helpful in determining an effective treatment.

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