Use of supplemental melatonin to improve sleep bruxism in a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

a case report

Abstract

Sleep bruxism has been investigated among sleep-related movement disorders, highly prevalent in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Children and adolescents with ADHD tend to have more sleep disorders compared to those with neurotypical development. Although there are still no specific guidelines for the treatment of bruxism in this population, it is believed that exogenous melatonin may contribute to improving sleep quality and reducing bruxism episodes. Therefore, the present study aimed to report the case of a 13-year-old male adolescent diagnosed with ADHD and frequent episodes of sleep bruxism. The patient had a history of talking and agitation during sleep, in addition to daytime fatigue. He reported grinding his teeth at least three times a week, in addition to fatigue in the facial muscles and tooth sensitivity when consuming cold foods. To improve sleep quality, it was decided to administer 3 mg of melatonin for a period of 60 days, together with sleep hygiene recommendations. A significant improvement in sleep quality and a reduction in bruxism-related symptoms were observed. Although this is a single case, the findings suggest that melatonin may represent a promising therapeutic alternative, reinforcing the need for larger and more controlled clinical studies to investigate its efficacy and safety in this population