Bruxism is the habit of grinding the teeth together, typically at night.

Although the grating noise may be annoying for a spouse or sibling, teeth grinding is not something to become worried about.

Contrary to popular belief, chronic teeth grinding will rarely wear down the teeth, nor does bruxism have a link to temporomandibular disorder (TMJ).

Bruxism is thought to be transmitted genetically and occurs in about 20 percent of people.

There is some evidence that emotional or physical stress can...