THE USE OF BOTULINUM TOXIN IN THE TREATMENT OF BRUXISM: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

Botulinum toxin type A (TXB-A) is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The use of TXB-A is indicated in intramuscular applications as an alternative solution for the treatment of bruxism. Bruxism is characterized by the masticatory muscular act of clenching and/or grinding teeth, being associated with emotional factors. The objective of this review is to analyze the evidence that proves the effectiveness of TXB-A in the treatment of bruxism, considering the etiology of this parafunction, the effects of the toxin on the body and the improvement in patients' quality of life. The methodology used involved the search for original articles, available online in full and free of charge, in English, Portuguese or Spanish, written between 2014 and 2024 and that were within the theme investigated. The following databases were used: Pubmed, Google Scholar and Web of Science. 22 articles were selected for the review. According to the literature, TXB-A is indicated in the treatment of bruxism, enabling an improvement in the quality of life of patients who have this habit. However, a precise indication is necessary for each case, seeking to restore the patient's general health.