What habit may require partner report to identify?

• A. Bruxism
• B. Clenching
• C. Snoring
• D. Tongue thrusting

Answer: (A)

Bruxism is the best fit because it often occurs during sleep, so the person may not realize they are grinding or clenching their teeth. A sleeping partner is frequently the one to notice grinding sounds or jaw movements, making partner report a key clue to identifying nocturnal bruxism. Clinically, bruxism shows tooth wear, enamel attrition, possible jaw muscle fatigue, and morning headaches, all of which point to a nighttime parafunctional habit. The other options are less about a sleep-time habit identifiable mainly through partner observation: clenching can be a daytime habit the person feels, snoring relates to airway issues rather than a dental grinding behavior, and tongue thrusting is a tongue-positioning/swallowing pattern not primarily detected by partner reports.