While most dentists treat bruxism using night guards,and stress management techniques, a number of studies have shown that medications can affect bruxism. One study of bruxers has indicated that clonidine may be an effective medicine to lesson bruxism. It may work by prolonging stage 2 sleep and suppressing REM sleep.
Other studies have shown that SSRI's(antidepressents) can cause an increase in bruxism and suggested that either lessoning the dose of the SSRI or prescribing Buspirone may help.
Most dentists do not prescribe the above mentioned medicines and if you are taking an antidepressant or would like to find out about clonidine, it would be a good idea to ask your physician. If they are unaware of the use of these medicines and their effects on bruxism you can refer them to this post and the links it provides to peer review articles.
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