bruxism

American  

[bruhk-siz-uhm] / ˈbrʌk sɪz əm /

noun

Pathology.

1. teeth grinding.

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bruxism British  

/ ˈbrʌksɪzəm /

noun

1. the habit of grinding the teeth, esp unconsciously

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bruxism Scientific  

/ brŭk′sĭz′əm /

1. The habitual, involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, usually during sleep and sometimes associated wth stress.

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Etymology

Origin of bruxism

1935–40; < Greek *brȳx ( is ) a gnashing of teeth ( brȳ́k ( ein ) to gnash, bite + -sis -sis ) + -ism

Example Sentences

And for older adults — whose teeth may be more fragile — bruxism may be especially troubling.

From Washington Post • Jun. 20, 2022

While bruxism can be hard to remedy, the following may help:

From Washington Post • Jun. 20, 2022

This has led some experts in the fields of dentistry, neuroscience, psychology and orthopedics to say there needs to be a paradigm shift in our understanding of the causes and treatment of bruxism.

From New York Times • Feb. 16, 2021

Thought to be precipitated or exacerbated by stress and anxiety, bruxism is largely subconscious and often occurs during sleep.

From New York Times • Feb. 16, 2021

While teeth grinding, or bruxism, caused by clenched jaw muscles, does occur while you’re awake, sleep bruxism is more difficult to treat, as many patients are unaware that they even have the problem.

From Slate • Nov. 14, 2018