Drug-Induced Bruxism: a Comprehensive Literature Review

Bruxism is a parafunctional teeth grinding activity that is attributed to be of multifactorial origin. The aim of this article is to provide a brief overview on drug-induced bruxism, commonly associated drugs, and its possible pathogenic mechanisms. Around 43 relevant publications were selected after a comprehensive search in PubMed, Cochrane library, Science Direct, and Google Scholar with appropriate keywords to collect data and compile this review. Disturbances in the neurotransmitters and their receptors in the central nervous system may play a significant role, particularly in sleep bruxism. Drugs that interfere normal secretion and function of neurotransmitters are documented to be capable of inducing bruxism. Such psychotropic drugs are being used in clinical practice chiefly for the management of mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. Although bruxism is a well-recognized side effect of certain medications, the extent of awareness about the same is still inadequate among dental professionals.