Common Risk Factors And Causes Of Teeth Grinding

Family History Of Teeth Grinding

A family history of teeth grinding may contribute to the development of bruxism for a few different reasons. For those who consciously grind their teeth during the day, they might have picked up the habit from being raised around others who did the same thing. In addition, individuals who grind their teeth in the day for the sake of stress relief might do so if they have a family history of anxiety. However, bruxism has a more common genetic link when it occurs during the night. Patients with a family history of night grinding are more likely to grind their teeth at night. If a sibling or parent has been diagnosed with nighttime grinding, an individual is at a higher risk of developing the condition. They might not even know they grind their teeth if they don't have a partner to tell them. Those with family histories of the condition should be aware of it and ask their dentist about ways to mitigate or prevent it.

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is just one of multiple mental health disorders bruxism has been linked to. Night bruxism is more likely to occur in children with ADHD than in neurotypical children. One study showed teenagers who were diagnosed early in their lives with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder had a higher likelihood of multiple different sleep disorders and issues. In addition to having a higher chance of bruxism, they were also more likely to experience snoring, sleep terrors, and struggles with insomnia. Sleep problems appear to be present in children with ADHD no matter how severe their actual symptoms are. The rate of prevalence is similar across all children with this condition, and it's significantly higher than that of children without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD causes issues with focus and concentration. Patients might struggle to absorb information, complete tasks, or keep track of time. Some affected individuals also experience hyperactive symptoms that make it difficult to sit still or stay quiet.