Bruxism in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder due to medication regimen: prevalence, correlates, and consequences a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Purpose Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) exhibit more parafunctional habits such as bruxism. Common medications for ADHD include methylphenidate and atomoxetine. This study aimed to investigate the effects of these medications and the severity of ADHD on bruxism. Materials and methods A total of 181 individuals aged 5–18 years with ADHD were divided into three groups: methylphenidate, atomoxetine, and drug-naïve. The Bruxism Checklist and the Conners’ Questionnaire (for assessing ADHD severity) were completed for each participant. The chi-square test was used to compare the severity of bruxism with both ADHD severity and medication type. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to compare bruxism and ADHD scores among the medication groups. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results Bruxism scores were higher in males, whereas ADHD scores did not differ significantly between males and females. Participants treated with methylphenidate had the highest mean bruxism scores. As ADHD severity increased, bruxism scores also increased. A statistically significant difference was found in mean ADHD scores across bruxism severity levels (P = 0.004). ADHD scores were significantly lower in the non-bruxism group compared to both the mild bruxism and the moderate-to-severe bruxism groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion The severity of bruxism in children with ADHD appears to be related to the severity of ADHD rather than the type of medication. Bruxism is more common in males. Management of bruxism in children with ADHD should adopt a multidisciplinary approach integrating pharmacological, behavioral, and dental strategies