SSRI-associated bruxism: A systematic review of published case reports

Antidepressant-associated movement disorders are a well-described phenomenon. However, antidepressant-associated bruxism, jaw pain, or jaw spasm, while reported in dental literature, is less commonly recognized among neurologists. We summarize the clinical features and treatment of antidepressant-associated bruxism and associated jaw pain through a systematic review of case reports.

Antidepressant-associated bruxism may occur in pediatric and adult patients, most commonly among female patients. Patients may develop symptoms with short-term and long-term antidepressant use. Fluoxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine were the most commonly reported offending agents. Symptoms may begin within 3-4 weeks of medication initiation and may resolve within 3-4 weeks of drug discontinuation, addition of buspirone, or substitution with another pharmacologic agent. The incidence of this phenomenon is unknown.

Bruxism associated with antidepressant use is an underrecognized phenomenon among neurologists, and may be treated with the addition of buspirone, dose modification, or medication discontinuation.