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

Conditions that affect the central nervous system, such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease or stroke, can cause or exacerbate bruxism.

From Washington Post • Jun. 20, 2022

“There’s tremendous overtreatment for a non-problem,” said Karen Raphael, psychologist and professor at New York University College of Dentistry, referring to the widespread use of bite guards, tranquilizers and even Botox injections to prevent bruxism.

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

According to the American Dental Association, normally 10 to 15 percent of people grind, a condition known as bruxism.

From New York Times • Feb. 13, 2010