Based on published studies of the relationship between prosthodontics and bruxism, an attempt was made to draw conclusions about the existence of a possible relationship between the two, with a focus on the potential cause-and-effect implications and on the strategies for planning prosthetic treatments in patients with bruxism. PubMed searches were conducted using the terms ‘bruxism’ and ‘prosthetic treatment’, as well as combinations of these and related terms. The few studies judged to be relevant were critically reviewed, in addition to papers found during an additional manual search of reference lists within selected articles. No clinical trials of the reviewed topics were found, and a comprehensive review relying on the best available evidence was provided. Bruxism is a common parafunctional habit, occurring both during sleep and wakefulness. Usually, it causes few serious effects but can do so in some patients. The etiology is multifactorial. No evidence-based guidelines were available for the best strategy for managing prosthetic needs in patients with TMDs and/or bruxism. This review revealed an absence of RCTs on the various topics concerning the relationship between bruxism and prosthodontics. Based on the best available evidence, bruxism may be included among the risk factors and is associated with increased mechanical and/or technical complications in prosthodontic rehabilitation, although it seems not to affect implant survival. Prosthetic changes in dental occlusion are not yet accepted as strategies for solving or helping individual stop bruxism. When prosthetic intervention is indicated in a patient with bruxism, efforts should be made to reduce the effects of likely heavy occlusal loading on all the components that contribute to prosthetic structural integrity.

bruxism, prosthetic treatment, clenching