Prevalence of bruxism in patients affected by epilepsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Bruxism, defined by the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, and epilepsy, a neurological ailment marked by recurring seizures, are both common conditions that can significantly affect persons' quality of life. Although numerous studies have investigated the relationship between bruxism and epilepsy, the current evidence is ambiguous. This systematic review seeks to consolidate existing information to elucidate the association between bruxism and epilepsy.

METHODS

In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline, a systematic search was performed across electronic databases, including PubMed, Lilacs, and Web of Science. The search encompassed all pertinent publications published until September 2021. The inclusion criteria were established to encompass observational studies (cohort, case-control, cross-sectional) that investigated the relationship between bruxism and epilepsy in human populations.

RESULTS

The preliminary search produced a total of 142 articles. After a rigorous screening process, 3 studies were declared appropriate for inclusion in the systematic review. The research varied in design, sample size, and methodology, with some studying the prevalence of bruxism in epileptic patients, while others studied the prevalence of epilepsy in individuals with bruxism. Heterogeneity among the research was handled using proper statistical analyses.

CONCLUSION

The findings from the included studies suggested a probable link between bruxism and epilepsy. However, the evidence was uneven and equivocal, with some research indicating a favourable correlation, while others showed no meaningful relationship. Methodological restrictions, such as changes in diagnostic criteria and data collection procedures, could contribute to the observed inconsistencies. In addition, the possible influence of confounding factors, such as medication use and comorbidities, should be addressed in interpreting the data.