IMPACT OF BRUXISM ON THE LONGEVITY AND CLINICAL SUCCESS OF IMPLANT-SUPPORTED REHABILITATION: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Bruxism is characterized by repetitive activity of the masticatory muscles and may subject implant-supported rehabilitations to excessive loads, since osseointegrated implants lack a periodontal ligament to absorb occlusal forces. This study aimed to analyze, through a narrative literature review, the influence of bruxism on the success and longevity of these rehabilitations, considering mechanical and biological complications, diagnostic methods, and prevention and management strategies. A search was carried out in the PubMed, SciELO, and Virtual Health Library (BVS) databases, using descriptors in Portuguese and English, and 18 studies published between 2021 and 2026 were selected. The findings indicate a tendency toward an association between bruxism and a higher occurrence of mechanical complications, such as screw loosening, fractures of prosthetic components, and structural failures, in addition to estimates of implant failure risk 2.2 to 4.7 times higher in bruxist patients in one of the reviews analyzed. However, results regarding implant survival and marginal bone loss are heterogeneous, owing to the lack of diagnostic standardization and differences in follow-up periods. It is concluded that bruxism should be considered a possible risk factor, rather than an absolute contraindication, and that individualized planning and periodic follow-up are essential.