Hostname: page-component-54dcc4c588-tfzs5 Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2025-09-22T10:07:46.522Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Neuropsychiatric Circuitry and Receptor Dysregulation in the Pathogenesis of Bruxism

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 August 2025

D. Patel*
Affiliation:
Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Davie
M. Murugappan
Affiliation:
Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States
B. Carr
Affiliation:
Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States
*
*Corresponding author.

Abstract

Core share and HTML view are not available for this content. However, as you have access to this content, a full PDF is available via the ‘Save PDF’ action button.
Introduction

Bruxism, characterized by the grinding and clenching of teeth, is often associated with psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and stress. Bruxism not only results in significant dental pathology but can also contribute to underlying neurophysiological disturbances.

Objectives

To elucidate the relationship between bruxism and psychiatric medication by focusing on the neurophysiological mechanisms involved and the resultant dental pathologies.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar, focusing on studies from the last decade that investigate the association between bruxism, psychiatric medications, and neurophysiological factors. The review included clinical studies, neuroimaging research, and behavioral analyses.

Results

The findings indicate a strong association between bruxism and the use of psychiatric medications, particularly antidepressants and antipsychotics. Neurophysiological studies reveal dysregulation in neurotransmitter systems, notably dopamine and serotonin, which play critical roles in both bruxism and the effects of psychiatric medications. This dysregulation affects motor control circuits and stress response pathways in the central nervous system, leading to involuntary teeth grinding and clenching.

Table 1: Neurophysiological Mechanisms

MechanismDescription
Dopamine DysregulationInhibition of dopaminergic neurons leads to dysregulation of motor control and contributes to spontaneous movement of jaw muscles.
Serotonin ImbalanceExcess serotonin enhances excitatory neurotransmission and disrupts dopaminergic pathways, contributing to increased anxiety and masseter muscle hyperactivity.
Autonomic Nervous SystemHyperactivity in the sympathetic branch, driven by chronic stress, leads to increased arousal and muscle tone causing bruxism.

Table 2: Dental Pathologies Resulting from Bruxism

PathologyDescription
Tooth WearEnamel erosion due to repetitive grinding, leading to dentin exposure.
FracturesMicrofractures in teeth from constant pressure, progressing to severe cracks.
TMJ Disorders (TMJD)Chronic bruxism contributes to TMJD, characterized by pain and joint dysfunction.
Periodontal DamageExcessive force on teeth exacerbates periodontal issues, leading to gum recession.

Conclusions

Bruxism is both a symptom and a potential side effect of various psychiatric medications, rooted in neurophysiological disturbances. The interplay between dysregulated neurotransmitter systems, psychiatric medications, and resultant dental pathologies highlights the need for integrated dental and psychiatric care. Effective management of bruxism through targeted dental interventions and tailored psychiatric treatments can significantly improve both dental health and psychiatric well-being.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared

Information

Type
Abstract
Creative Commons
Creative Common License - CCCreative Common License - BY
This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution licence (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted re-use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright
© The Author(s), 2025. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of European Psychiatric Association
Submit a response

Comments

No Comments have been published for this article.