[Bruxism and neurodegenerative diseases, is there a connection?]

Abstract

Bruxism, characterized by grinding teeth and clenching jaws, may be associated with various neurodegenerative diseases. This study aimed to systematically investigate the prevalence of bruxism in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. A systematic review of the literature was carried out across 4 databases. Original studies reporting the prevalence and related factors of bruxism in patients with neurodegenerative diseases were included. The literature search yielded 3,722 references, 43 of which fully met the inclusion criteria. Parkinson’s disease showed the highest prevalence rates, followed by multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, chorea-acanthocytosis and frontotemporal dementia. This systematic review indicates a potential association between bruxism and neurodegenerative diseases. However, the available literature on the presence and characteristics of bruxism in this patient group is limited. Further research is needed to improve support for dental care providers in order to effectively assist this vulnerable group of patients in preventing and mitigating the adverse effects of bruxism.