Bruxism is defined as a diurnal or nocturnal parafunctional activity that includes clenching and grinding of the teeth. The difficulty in identifying patients often complicates the study of this disorder. Bruxism affects the dentition and supporting tissues, causing tooth wear, hypermobility or hypersensitivity, and soreness of the muscles of mastication. It may also have a long-term effect on the condyle and the articular disc. Multiple factors are involved in the genesis of bruxism, including malocclusion, the use of psychotropic medications, and genetic predisposition.
Stress also appears to play a role in bruxism.
Chronic bruxers have been described as frequent worriers or Type A personalities. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between anxiety and bruxism. Subjects that had at least 20 teeth were given the opportunity to take part in this study. Patients currently undergoing orthodontic treatment or with a history of surgery or trauma to the TMJ were excluded. After signing an informed consent, patients completed a series of self-rating questionnaires followed by an oral examination.