Modafinil Teeth Grinding And Its Consequences

Modafinil is a nootropic that is known to cause a few side effects, most of which are milder in nature. One of the rare side effects of this nootropic is teeth grinding. The article delves into the details of:

• Modafinil Teeth Grinding

• How is it caused?

• How long does Modafinil Teeth grinding last?

• Tips to overcome Modafinil Jaw Clenching. 

What Is Modafinil?

Modafinil is a non-amphetamine, a novel stimulant that helps to treat excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder. It is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it has a low potency for abuse and addiction. The use of the medication was approved by the FDA in 1998 [1].

Teeth Grinding: An Overview

Teeth Grinding or Bruxism is a condition in which a person clenches, grinds, or gnashes their teeth. This generally happens subconsciously, during waking hours or when you are asleep. Bruxism can cause stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders, affecting the overall well-being of an individual [2]. 

Teeth Grinding: A Side Effect Of Modafinil 

Teeth Grinding due to Modafinil intake is a rare side effect of the medication affecting a very small number of people. It can wear down the tooth surfaces and enamel, resulting in height loss and increased sensitivity. Teeth Grinding doesn’t only affect your dental health but also other aspects of life, such as - 

• If you are grinding your teeth while sleeping at night, you might face problems such as headaches and jaw pain the following day. 

• People who work on computers the whole day and clench their jaws might experience chronic migraines and muscle pain in the face and neck. 

How Does Modafinil Affect Your Teeth?

Some of the causes of teeth grinding or bruxism contributed by Modafinil are given below:

• Increased Alertness and Stimulation: The heightened state of alertness and stimulation caused by Modafinil might lead to increased muscle tension or restlessness. This might contribute to bruxism.

• Sleep disturbances: Modafinil is designed to promote wakefulness, which can interfere with normal sleep patterns. Sleep disturbances are known to be associated with teeth grinding or bruxism. 

• Anxiety or stress: Modafinil users might experience increased anxiety or stress as a side effect. Anxiety and stress are both known as triggers for bruxism. Modafinil induces feelings of nervousness or agitation, which could indirectly contribute to teeth grinding. 

• Neurological effects:  The nootropic increases the level of neurotransmitters such as orexin, histamine, dopamine, and serotonin, which help with mood enhancement and arousal. The changes in the neurotransmitter levels potentially influence muscle control, which might contribute to some individuals. 

Symptoms of Modafinil Teeth Grinding

The following five are a few symptoms of Modafinil Teeth Grinding:

• Loose tooth

• Stiffness in the jaw

• Sensitive teeth 

• Toothache

• Stiffness of the face after waking up. 

NOTE: The symptoms of Modafinil Teeth Grinding vary from general bruxism, and the symptoms are only visible after administration of Modafinil dosage. 

Duration Of Modafinil Affecting Your Teeth

Modafinil's half-life (duration required by medicine to reduce by half) is 12–15 hours. Therefore, teeth grinding due to this nootropic can last for 24 hours, and after discontinuing the medication, this problem is resolved on its own. 

How To Prevent Teeth Grinding?

You can try the following tips in order to prevent or manage  jaw clenching or teeth grinding due to Modafinil:

• You should drink plenty of water; staying hydrated helps keep your mouth moist, reducing the chances of teeth grinding. 

• Mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing can help reduce teeth grinding by relaxing the jaw muscles.

• Try to adopt a balanced diet rich in magnesium, such as almonds, spinach, and yogurt which helps in the relaxation of the jaw muscles.

• Consult your doctor; they will help you adjust your Modafinil dosages. Lowering the nootropic dosage decreases the overall stimulant effect in the body, resulting in lower chances of teeth grinding. 

• You can use a mouthguard that will help protect your teeth and jaw from grinding. 

• Chewing gum can reduce the chances of teeth grinding as it produces saliva and helps lubricate the mouth. 

• You can avoid caffeine and stimulants in order to avoid teeth grinding.

• Practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing two times regularly, can also help in reducing teeth grinding. 

NOTE: Around 0.15% of cases are reported out of 22,457, according to Ehealthme.com, as of March 1, 2023 [3].

When To Seek Medical Help?

Although teeth grinding due to Modafinil intake resolves on its own, sometimes it requires medical attention in the following scenarios:

• Persistent oral discomfort.

• Facial pain 

• Onset of headaches. 

In such cases, a doctor's detailed evaluation can lead to a better understanding and management of the side effects. 

Modafinil Teeth Grinding: Our Final Outlook

In the article, we have shed light on the link between Modafinil and teeth grinding, a lesser-known but significant side effect.  We have stated the need to be aware of the issue and to manage it proactively.  One of the keys is to maintain clear communication with the healthcare provider. This ensures you get the right advice on dosage guidelines. You should remember that Modafinil can be beneficial, but it's crucial to use it wisely and take proper steps to protect your oral health.