Bruxism in Acute Neurologic Illness.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Bruxism is often associated with ambulatory settings but also manifests in acute neurologic conditions such as stroke and traumatic brain injury.
• Untreated bruxism in acute neurological illness can lead to severe complications including dental damage, aspiration pneumonia, and airway compromise.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the etiologies and management strategies for bruxism in patients with acute neurologic illness.
• To increase awareness among inpatient clinicians regarding this condition.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of bruxism in acute neurologic illness.
• Analysis of current pharmacologic, non-pharmacologic, and onabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) treatment strategies.

Main Results:

• Bruxism is a recognized complication in various acute neurologic conditions.
• Emerging evidence indicates that treatment strategies for bruxism in this population are both effective and safe.

Conclusions:

• Inpatient clinicians must be vigilant for bruxism in patients with acute neurologic illness.
• Timely and appropriate management of bruxism can mitigate serious secondary complications.