Institute for Continuing Education

Bruxism: The Sleep Disorder

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Define the term bruxism.
• List the causes of bruxism.
• List the pathologies of bruxism.
• Identify the potential cures for this disorder

Course Information

Bruxism is listed in the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD.) In fact, the ICSD suggests that bruxism is the third most common form of sleep disorder right behind sleep talking and snoring. In this course, you will the definition of the term, its etiology, pathology, methods of diagnosis, and treatments.

Bruxism is also closely associated with other sleep disorders. Research has discovered that people who brux are more likely to snore, suffer from breathing pauses during sleep and be victims of sleep apnea. As is the case in many sleeping problems, stress is a major cause of bruxism. Even during the day, it’s not unusual to clench or grind the teeth when angry or nervous. The use of tobacco, alcohol or caffeine tends to aggravate the problem. It’s a disorder that can affect people of all ages, men and women. It does seem to decrease with age, and the worst cases occur in the 19 to 44 year age group.