Sleep related bruxism—comprehensive review of the literature based on a rare case presentation

Abstract

Background and Objective: To perform a comprehensive review of the literature on sleep related bruxism (SRB) based on the presentation of a rare case. SRB is currently classified by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) as a sleep related movement disorder. Multiple etiological factors have been reported as contributing to the development of this disorder. Genetics may be one of them. We describe the literature on this entity as related to an unusual case of the disorder being transmitted over four generations in a family. Methods: A comprehensive history and clinical features in the patient, as well as the possible genetic factors were delineated. A thorough literature search on the topic was performed based on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, Medline. Key Content and Findings: The SRB in this family has been transmitted through the four generations; however, one of the twins in the fourth generation is exhibiting symptoms. The sensory, autonomic, and motor mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology and presentation of SRB is currently poorly understood. We attempt to elucidate the known mechanisms and explore the possible neurophysiological pathways as related to this entity. Conclusions: SRB can have a strong genetic predisposition. The reason for the entity to skip one of the twins in the fourth generation is unknown.