What causes teeth grinding during sleep at night?
Disease description:
My younger sister always grinds her teeth while sleeping, and I can't sleep at night because of it. Why does someone grind their teeth during sleep?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Chao
Nocturnal bruxism, also known as "sleep-related bruxism" or "teeth grinding during sleep," is a common sleep disorder. This phenomenon may be caused by various factors:
1. Occlusal disorders: If abnormal biting forces exist, teeth may unconsciously bear pressure, making teeth grinding more likely to occur during sleep. Corrective measures such as wearing orthodontic appliances, including metal braces or invisible aligners, may be needed.
2. Psychological factors: Emotional states such as mental tension, anxiety, stress, anger, or depression are common triggers. When the brain is in a state of heightened excitement or tension, teeth grinding may manifest unconsciously during sleep.
3. Lifestyle habits: Improper eating habits before bedtime, such as consuming indigestible food or food containing stimulants like caffeine, may also affect sleep quality and lead to teeth grinding.
4. Sleep apnea syndrome: In most cases, repeated upper airway collapse and obstruction occur during sleep, causing symptoms such as snoring, breathing pauses, or teeth grinding during sleep.
5. Other factors: Parasites, blood pressure fluctuations, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and other conditions may also be associated with teeth grinding.
