The Neurological Side of Bruxism: What to Know

While teeth grinding is often linked to stress or dental issues, many overlook the neurological side of bruxism: what to know is that your brain and nervous system play a major role in both the cause and management of this condition. Understanding the connection between the brain and jaw muscles can uncover new insights into treatment strategies and help identify underlying causes that go beyond dental misalignment or anxiety.

How the Brain Controls Jaw Movement?

The act of Teeth Grinding Treatment in Dubai, especially during sleep, is often an unconscious behavior rooted in neurological activity. Several brain regions are responsible for motor control, including jaw movement.

• The brainstem plays a central role in initiating rhythmic jaw activity during sleep

• Motor neurons control the masseter and temporalis muscles, which are highly active during bruxism

• Dysfunction in neurotransmitter systems—especially dopamine—has been linked to abnormal jaw movements

• Neurological misfiring can cause the jaw muscles to contract even when there’s no conscious reason

• Sleep-related bruxism is often considered a form of sleep movement disorder, similar to restless leg syndrome

These brain-based signals are involuntary and can override your awareness, especially at night.

The Role of Stress and the Nervous System:

One of the strongest neurological contributors to bruxism is chronic stress. When the nervous system is in a heightened state, your body reacts—even during sleep.

• The sympathetic nervous system becomes overactive, leading to tension in facial muscles

• Elevated cortisol and adrenaline levels may trigger nighttime grinding

• The brain perceives stress even during rest, translating it into physical responses like jaw clenching

• Daytime bruxism often results from subconscious responses to psychological pressure

• In people with anxiety or panic disorders, bruxism is more common and more intense

This stress response creates a cycle where neurological tension feeds physical strain, and vice versa.

Bruxism and Neurological Disorders:

Certain neurological conditions are more likely to be associated with bruxism. Whether due to medication side effects or motor control dysfunction, teeth grinding can be a symptom of a larger issue.

• Parkinson’s disease patients often experience bruxism due to dopamine deficiency

• Individuals with epilepsy may grind as part of seizure activity or as a side effect of anti-seizure drugs

• Cerebral palsy can involve uncoordinated muscle movement, leading to bruxism

• Autism spectrum disorder has been linked with both awake and sleep bruxism in children and adults

• Traumatic brain injuries may disrupt motor regulation, increasing involuntary jaw activity

If bruxism appears suddenly or severely, a neurological screening may be recommended by healthcare professionals.

The Connection Between Medications and Grinding:

Many psychiatric or neurological medications can influence the development of bruxism, especially those affecting dopamine or serotonin levels in the brain.

• SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) like fluoxetine and sertraline may trigger teeth grinding

• Antipsychotic drugs can lead to extrapyramidal symptoms, including involuntary jaw movements

• ADHD medications, particularly stimulants, may increase tension and cause clenching

• Dopaminergic medications sometimes relieve symptoms in Parkinson’s-related bruxism

• Withdrawal from certain medications can temporarily increase grinding during the adjustment period

Always inform your doctor or dentist of any medication changes when discussing bruxism symptoms.

Diagnosing Neurological Bruxism:

Determining whether your Teeth Grinding Treatment has a neurological basis requires a combination of clinical evaluations and sleep studies. Unlike regular grinding due to stress or dental misalignment, neurological bruxism often presents alongside other systemic signs.

• Polysomnography (sleep study) can detect rhythmic masticatory muscle activity

• Neurological exams may test motor function, reflexes, and coordination

• A thorough medical history will reveal related disorders or medications

• EMG (electromyography) can measure jaw muscle activity overnight

• Dentists may observe wear patterns and ask about daytime symptoms to support a diagnosis

Early diagnosis is essential to rule out serious conditions and start appropriate interventions.

Treatment Approaches That Consider the Brain:

Treating the neurological side of bruxism requires a multidisciplinary approach that often includes neurological care, dental support, and behavioral therapies.

• Nightguards or splints protect teeth but may not stop neurologically-driven grinding

• Muscle relaxants or botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can reduce jaw muscle activity

• Stress-reduction techniques like biofeedback, meditation, or CBT may ease nervous system overactivity

• In Parkinson’s or epilepsy cases, adjusting medications may offer relief

• Physical therapy and jaw exercises can improve muscle coordination and reduce strain

When bruxism stems from brain function, it’s important to address the root cause, not just the symptoms.