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

The condition, called bruxism, can apply up to 200 pounds of force to the teeth.

From Washington Post • Jun. 20, 2022

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

From Washington Post • Jun. 20, 2022

Other factors that may increase bruxism are poor sleep hygiene and bad posture.

From New York Times • Feb. 16, 2021

“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