PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS AND OROFACIAL MANIFESTATIONS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

The use of psychotropic drugs in childhood and adolescence may be associated with orofacial manifestations requiring dental attention, although the nature of these relationships remains uncertain. This study aimed to analyze the main orofacial manifestations associated with psychotropic drug use in children and adolescents, considering the drug classes involved and their clinical implications. A descriptive, qualitative narrative literature review was conducted, covering publications from 2020 to 2026 retrieved from PubMed/MEDLINE, PubMed Central, and scientific journals. The review included 16 references, of which nine pediatric clinical studies were synthesized in the results. Reported findings included reduced salivary flow and buffering capacity, sialorrhea, bruxism, orofacial dyskinesias, changes in oral health status, and possible mandibular alterations. Methylphenidate and antipsychotics, particularly clozapine, were prominent among the drugs investigated. However, the predominance of observational studies and case reports, together with the influence of underlying clinical and behavioral conditions, limits causal inferences. Individualized dental follow-up and interdisciplinary care are therefore important for the early recognition of these manifestations and the implementation of preventive measures. Further robust longitudinal studies are needed.