Bruxism - the challenge of contemporary dental medicine (literary review)

Abstract

Abstract

Background: The references of gnashing the teeth historically were described in negative annotations. In many cultures the gnashing of teeth has been associated with suffering, physical pain, madness and possession. Bruxism is mentioned in the Bible in several verses.          Bruxism is said to have multiple causes. They include central factors, psychosocial factors and peripheral factors. The Bruxism Association underlined several factors of causes of bruxism: 1) sleep disorders, 2) Lifestyle factors 3) Stress, anxiety and other psychological components. Therefore, the treatment is multifaceted. Treatment aims to find and remove the causes of bruxism, change the behavior that causes bruxism and repair the damage that often causes.

Aim: The aim of the study was systematical literature revision about historical view of bruxism.

Methods: The literature review was performed using the following databases to identify relevant scientific studies. The language was restricted to English. The year of publication was limited over the last 6 Years.

Results: More than 60 articles were found. 29 most relevant publications were chosen.    Before 2013 there is no consensus about the definition and diagnostic grading of bruxism. A written consensus discussion was held among an international group of bruxism experts in 2013 as to formulate a definition of bruxism and to suggest a grading system for the operationalization.

Conclusion: Bruxism is a common parafunctional habit, occurring in male, female and children, in any ages. The management of bruxism should focus to prevent progression of dental wear, reduce teeth grinding sounds, and improve muscle discomfort and TMJ dysfunction.

Keywords: bruxism, parafunction, grinding of teeth, occlusion, dental implants