PREGNANCY AND ORAL PARAFUNCTIONAL HABIT – BRUXISM

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to represent pregnant patients with an existing parafunctional habit- bruxism in pregnancy, its diagnosis, evaluation and treatment. Methods: Three pregnant patient came to the University Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, with severe headaches, tinnitus, earaches, dizziness, and problems in opening of the mouth in their first trimester. They were clinically examined, diagnosed and treated for the parafunctional habit – bruxism. In the second and third semester, the symptomatology from bruxism was alleviated in two patients. The third patient did not finish the study. Conservative treatment with producing individually designed splints was carried out. Results: Parafunctional habits that are present in pregnant patients worsen due to many physiological changes occurring in pregnancy. The patients were diagnosed with a horizontal type of bruxism, not treated. Pregnancy has a direct correlation with the entire body and thus affecting the stomatognathic system, which is proven in this study. Conclusion: Pregnancy can affect the entire health of the patients. That is why besides all of the accompanied examinations, particular attention must be paid on the oral health for enabling these patients a better quality of life.