Stress and Anxiety Are Linked to Sleep Bruxism

Key takeaway

Nighttime teeth grinding is linked to stress and anxiety for many people; prevalence estimates vary by country and method (e.g., one Portuguese survey reported ~8.5% in adults).

  • Sleep bruxism is rhythmic jaw-muscle activity during sleep.
  • Stress and anxiety commonly track with grinding risk.
ClaimScientific ObservationImpact Magnitude
Prevalence example~8.5% in a Portuguese adult surveyLocal, not universal
Anxiety/depressionAssociated with higher bruxism riskElevated risk
Chronic stressRecognized correlateMore grinding for some