The Effect of Excessive Gadget Use on Visual Fatigue and Bruxism Risk in Children: A Literature Review

The use of digital gadgets among children has increased significantly along with technological development and the implementation of online learning. Excessive screen exposure is associated with visual fatigue or digital eye strain, characterized by blurred vision, eye dryness, ocular discomfort, and headaches. In addition to visual complaints, prolonged gadget use is linked to psychological stress and sleep disturbances, which are known risk factors for parafunctional habits such as bruxism in children. This literature review aims to analyze the relationship between excessive gadget use, visual fatigue, and the risk of bruxism in children. Literature was collected from PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and relevant textbooks published between 2020 and 2025. The reviewed studies indicate that excessive screen time is consistently associated with increased visual fatigue and may indirectly contribute to bruxism through mechanisms involving stress, neurophysiological fatigue, and sleep disruption. Regulation of screen time and proper visual ergonomics are essential to reduce adverse effects on children’s visual and oral health.