People with bruxism may have a genetic predisposition. An imbalance in central dopaminergic neurotransmission is hypothesized to play a role.

Bruxism is associated with oral problems like temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) , psychological distress, sleep disorders, increased esophageal acidity, and some psychotropic medications.

Psychotropic medications may cause bruxism by affecting motor activity by direct effect on dopaminergic pathways or indirectly via serotonergic pathways. The side effect may occur on starting treatment or increasing dosage.

Most information on bruxism and psychotropic medications is derived from case reports. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) , serotonin norepinephrine reuptake (SNRIs) , and typical antipsychotics are associated with bruxism [1]. Bruxism with typical antipsychotics seems to occur along with other extrapyramidal symptoms. Stimulants and antihistamines are also known to cause bruxism.

Buspirone is reported to alleviate SSRI-induced bruxism. Some atypical antipsychotics may be successful in treating bruxism and there are case reports with clozapine and aripiprazole. Propranolol and clonidine have been studied to treat bruxism but evidence is limited.