Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex psychiatric condition characterized by a range of debilitating symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, sleep disturbances, and self-destructive behaviors. While much attention has been devoted to understanding the psychological manifestations of PTSD, there has been a notable gap in research concerning its impact on oral health. A recent study conducted by Dr. Ana Cristina de Oliveira Solis and her team at the University of Sao Paulo sheds light on this underexplored aspect of PTSD, revealing a compelling association between PTSD and bruxism, or teeth grinding.

Source: Dr. Ana Cristina de Oliveira Solis

The study, which involved 76 Brazilian adults, half of whom were diagnosed with PTSD and the other half serving as a control group, uncovered a significant disparity in the incidence of daytime teeth grinding between the two groups. Specifically, individuals with PTSD were found to be more than three times as likely to experience bruxism compared to their non-PTSD counterparts. This finding not only underscores the profound impact of PTSD on physical health but also highlights the need for integrated approaches to healthcare that address both psychiatric and dental concerns.

Dr. Solis, the lead author of the study, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the oral manifestations of PTSD and the implications for clinical practice. In addition to bruxism, PTSD patients exhibited a higher level of pain following dental examinations, suggesting a potential link between PTSD and heightened dental sensitivity. This observation underscores the interconnectedness of mental and physical health and underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in patient care.

One notable aspect of the study is its focus on oral hygiene as a potential confounding factor in the relationship between PTSD and bruxism. Contrary to expectations, oral hygiene was not found to be associated with bruxism in PTSD patients, as both the PTSD group and the control group demonstrated similar levels of oral health. However, the PTSD group reported experiencing more pain after dental probing, suggesting that bruxism and dental pain may serve as warning signs of underlying psychiatric issues such as PTSD.

Building on these findings, Dr. Solis and her team advocate for a holistic approach to patient care that integrates psychiatric screening into routine dental examinations and vice versa. By proactively identifying and addressing PTSD-related oral health issues, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Furthermore, Dr. Solis stresses the importance of patient education and empowerment, encouraging individuals diagnosed with PTSD to seek therapeutic assistance and, if necessary, dental evaluation for symptoms such as bruxism or jaw pain.

The implications of this study extend beyond clinical practice to broader public health initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the link between mental health and oral health. By acknowledging and addressing the oral manifestations of PTSD, healthcare providers can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of this complex condition and improve access to appropriate care for those affected.

In conclusion, the study by Dr. Ana Cristina de Oliveira Solis and her colleagues highlights the significant association between PTSD and bruxism, underscoring the need for integrated approaches to healthcare that address both psychiatric and dental concerns. By recognizing the oral manifestations of PTSD and implementing proactive screening and treatment strategies, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes and enhance overall well-being. This study represents a crucial step forward in advancing our understanding of the intricate interplay between mental health and oral health and underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in patient care.

Find out more about bruxism at Johns Hopkins Medicine.
SOURCE: Springer publishing, news release, May 14, 2024