Why do stimulant medicines like the ones taken for ADD make you grind your teeth and clench your jaw?
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This is known as bruxism.
The exact mechanism by which stimulant medications cause bruxism is not fully understood, but it is thought that the medications’ effects on the brain’s neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, may be involved. These neurotransmitters are involved in regulating muscle tone, and an increase in their levels may lead to increased muscle activity in the jaw and face, resulting in teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
Additionally, stimulant medications can increase adrenaline levels in the body, which can lead to increased stress and muscle tension, and make you more susceptible to bruxism.
It is worth mentioning that bruxism itself is a common condition and may not be caused by the medication only, some people may already have it and the medication may exacerbate it.
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