The effect of sleep position on sleep bruxism in adults with obstructive sleep apnea.

BACKGROUND: Most of the respiratory events in adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs in supine position. It has been reported that the contraction of masseter muscles is dependent on the occurrence of arousals rather than on the occurrence of respiratory events. OBJECTIVES: This study had two aims: (1) to compare the rhythmic masticatory muscle activity (RMMA) index in supine position (RMMA_sup) and in non-supine positions (RMMA_nsup) in adults with OSA; and (2) to determine the associations between RMMA index in both supine position and non-supine positions on the one hand, and several demographic and polysomnographic variables on the other hand. METHODS: One hundred OSA participants (36 females and 64 males; mean age = 50.3 years (SD = 10.5)) were selected randomly from among patients with a full-night polysomnographic recording. RMMA_sup index and RMMA_nsup index were compared using Mann-Whitney U-test. Multivariate linear regression analyses were used to predict RMMA index both in supine and non-supine positions based on several demographic and polysomnographic variables. RESULTS: In patients with OSA, the RMMA_sup index was significantly higher than the RMMA_nsup index (p < .001). RMMA_sup index was significantly associated with the arousal index (p = .002) and arousal index in supine position (p < .001). RMMA_nsup index was only significantly associated with the arousal index in non-supine positions (p = .004). CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, RMMAs occur more frequently in supine position than in non-supine positions in patients with OSA. In both sleep positions, RMMAs are associated with arousals.

Temporomandibular Disorders, Bruxism and Headaches.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and headache disorders are highly prevalent in the population. TMDs can present headache symptoms as a secondary headache and, in addition, be comorbid with primary headache disorders. This overlap has significant clinical implications for which it is essential for the physician to be aware, and they should screen for the potential presence of TMDs in a headache patient. Bruxism is a parafunctional behavior also prevalent in the population which has a role in TMDs and may influence headache symptomatology, but it is still necessary to clarify this relationship.

Tooth surface loss: causes, management and prevention.

OBJECTIVES: Tooth wear (TW), also referred to as tooth surface loss (TSL), occurs due to causes other than caries. This involves the loss of hard tissues, namely enamel, dentin and/or cementum. Types of TW/TSL are abrasion, abfraction, attrition and erosion. These multifactorial conditions can be caused things such as lifestyle, diet or even habits and may not be symptomatic. The focus of this article is to provide clinicians with detailed examples and explanations of the causes of tooth loss to aid in early diagnosis. Through early identification, the preventive measures outlined can be implemented to avoid excessive TW. The provision of a treatment flowchart and general treatment recommendations aims to help clinicians determine when to restore these lesions and the most appropriate treatment measures for the 4 types of wear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The PubMed (MEDLINE) search engine was used to gather information on TW restricted to a five-year period (26 August 2018 - 25 July 2022). Only English-language studies and reviews with the best balance of sensitivity and specificity were considered. A Boolean search of the PubMed dataset was implemented to combine a range of keywords: ("tooth wear" OR tooth attrition OR tooth erosion OR tooth abrasion OR tooth abfraction). Additional articles were also selected through Google Scholar. RESULTS: By this process, many articles and studies were obtained, and the 48 most relevant published studies were chosen and used in the current review. The selected articles are in the reference list. CONCLUSION: TW affects an increasing number of individuals and can have detrimental effects physically, mentally and emotionally. It is important to stress early diagnosis and management of tooth wear through monitoring, prevention and treatment where indicated.

Can botulinum toxin injection alleviate the pain of bruxism? A Bayesian network analysis and a single-arm analysis.

Background/purpose: There is inconsistent evidence regarding whether the botulinum toxin A (BTA) injection can relieve pain caused by bruxism. This study aimed to estimate the efficiency of BTA injection in relieving pain caused by bruxism at different follow-up periods. Materials and methods: Five electronic databases were searched from 2005 to 2022 using search terms related to botulinum toxin and bruxism. Only controlled clinical trials were included. Two investigators reviewed each article and discussed any disagreements until a consensus was reached. Pain outcomes as evaluated by the visual analogue scale (VAS) were subjected to single-arm and Bayesian network meta-analyses. Pooling data were measured by a random-effects model. Results: Eleven studies with a total of 365 bruxism patients were included. According to the single-arm analyses of the pooled data, the reduction in bruxism-related pain after BTA injection measured 4.06 points (95% CI = 3.37 to 4.75) on the VAS, and the pain relief was significant in the first 6 months after treatment (P < 0.01). According to the Bayesian analysis, BTA also resulted in significantly greater pain relief than oral splinting (mean difference (MD), -1.5; 95% credible interval (CrI) = -2.7 to -0.19) or saline injection (MD, -3.3; 95% CrI = -6.2 to -0.32). Conclusion: BTA significantly relieves the pain of bruxism for 6 months after injection, and its therapeutic efficacy was higher than that of oral splinting. Nevertheless, further long-term follow-up randomized controlled trials comparing BTA with other management or drugs are warranted.

Tooth wear and bruxism: A scoping review.

OBJECTIVE: This study presents a scoping review to determine the association between tooth wear and bruxism. DATA: A protocol was developed a priori (Open Science Framework (DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/CS7JX)). Established scoping review methods were used for screening, data extraction, and synthesis. Risk of bias was assessed using JBI tools. Direct associations between tooth wear and bruxism were assessed. SOURCES: Embase, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Cochrane, and PubMed were searched. STUDY SELECTION: Any clinical study containing tooth wear and bruxism assessment done on humans in any language was included. Animal, in-vitro studies and case reports were excluded. CONCLUSIONS: Thirty publications reporting on the association between tooth wear and bruxism were included. The majority of publications were cross-sectional studies (90%) while only three were longitudinal (10%). Eleven papers assessed definitive bruxism for analysis (instrumental tools), one paper assessed probable bruxism (clinical inspection with self-report) and eighteen assessed possible bruxism (self-report). Of the eleven papers assessing definitive bruxism, eight also reported outcomes of non-instrumental tools. Tooth wear was mostly scored using indexes. Most studies reported no or weak associations between tooth wear and bruxism, except for the studies done on cervical tooth wear. When bruxism assessment was done through self-report, more often an association was found. Studies using multivariate analyses did not find an association between tooth wear and bruxism, except the cervical wear studies. Evidence shows inconclusive results as to whether bruxism and tooth wear are related or not. Therefore, well-designed longitudinal trials are needed to address this gap in the literature. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Based on the evidence, dental clinicians should not infer bruxism activity solely on the presence of tooth wear.

Investigation of Bruxism wear behavior of titanium alloy biomaterials; experimental and 3D finite element simulation.

Bruxism can be defined as the process of direct contact with teeth and dental materials with an involuntary jaw-tightening movement. In this process, teeth and dental materials can be exposed to various damage mechanisms. This study aims to realize the mechanism of bruxism with finite element analysis and in vitro rotating chewing movement analysis. Within the scope of the study, cp-Ti, Ti-5Zr, and Ti-5Ta materials were subjected to wear tests in the finite element analysis and in vitro rotating chewing movement method under the determined Bruxism chewing test conditions. Test specimens with cylindrical geometry were exposed to a direct every-contact wear mechanism for 30 s under 150 N bruxism chewing bite force. The bruxism chewing cycle continued for 300 min at a frequency of 2 Hz. Microanalysis of the wear surfaces of the samples after the experimental study was carried out with Scanning Electron Microscopy. The results obtained within the scope of this study showed that the Bruxism wear resistance increased by adding zirconium and tantalum to pure titanium material. This result shows that pure titanium material, which is known to have poor wear resistance, can be improved with Zr and Ta alloys. It is clinically important that the success rate in the treatment process increases with the increase in wear resistance. However, the micro-cracks observed in the microstructure may have occurred in the sub-surface, which is a show of the fatigue wear mechanism.

Efficacy of wireless sensors in assessing occlusal and bite forces: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The noteworthy correlation between bite force and masticatory performance emphasizes its significance as a meaningful and objective method for assessing oral function. Furthermore, in the study of bruxism, the measurement of intraoral bite force assumes critical importance. Given the importance of assessing occlusal forces and bite force, this systematic review aims to assess the efficacy of wireless sensors in measuring these forces. METHODS: The search methodology employed in this systematic review adhered to the guidelines outlined by PRISMA. The strategy involved the exploration of various databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS and SCIELO. An assessment tool was employed to evaluate the bias risk and study quality. RESULTS: This systematic review encompassed six prospective clinical studies involving a total of 89 participants. Wireless sensors for measuring occlusal forces and bite forces were predominantly employed in healthy adults or individuals with bruxism, along with children undergoing orthodontic treatment. All wireless sensors employed in the studies underwent validation and reproducibility assessments, affirming their reliability. The findings indicated that all wireless sensors exhibited efficacy in detecting occlusal forces and bite forces. CONCLUSION: Wireless sensors offer real-time monitoring of occlusal and bite forces, aiding in understanding force distribution and identifying bruxism patterns. Despite limited studies on their application, these sensors contribute to evolving insights. Integration into clinical practice requires careful consideration of factors like calibration and patient compliance. Ongoing research is crucial to address limitations and enhance the efficacy of wireless sensors in measuring occlusal and bite forces and managing bruxism.

Awake bruxism report in a population of dental students with and without ecological momentary assessment monitorization-A randomised trial.

OBJECTIVE: The Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) concept was the basis for developing a smartphone application for the real-time report of awake bruxism (AB) activities. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the EMA with a randomised controlled trial designed to compare the frequency of AB reported in two separate single observation points between a group of students monitored over time with an EMA smartphone application and a non-EMA monitored group. METHODS: Sixty-four (N = 64) dental students (22.3 YO [±2.6]; 52F; 12 M) answered the Oral Behaviour Checklist (OBC-1) and were randomised into an EMA-group (EG) and control group (CG). EG were monitored with a smartphone application for AB report during seven consecutive days and completed three EMA monitoring periods (EMA-1, 2 and 3) at one-month intervals. After the third period (EMA-3), both EG and CG answered again the OBC (OBC-2). Descriptive statistics were performed to characterise the sample. Pearson's chi-squared test, Fixer Exact test and post hoc Z test with Bonferroni correction were performed. The study hypothesis was that EMA could influence the AB reported by the participants because it implies an increase in the awareness, self-recognition, and self-control of bruxism behaviours. The level of significance was set at p < .05. RESULT: The percentage of participants who changed the report of the activity of clenching their teeth while awake between OBC-1 and OBC-2 was significantly higher among participants in EG, when compared to CG (p = .027). For all other behaviours reported the within- and between-group differences from OBC-1 to OBC-2 were not significant. Clenching and bracing were the most frequently reported, whilst grinding was the less frequent behaviour. CONCLUSION: A smartphone-based EMA approach demonstrated be useful to monitor AB over time, increasing individual's awareness, particularly to bracing and clenching behaviours.

Prevalence and risk factors of sleep bruxism in adults with primary snoring: a large-scale polysomnographic study.

STUDY OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of sleep bruxism (SB) in adults with primary snoring (PS). METHODS: This study included 292 adults with PS (140 males, 152 females; mean age ± SD = 42.8 ±12.2 years; mean BMI ± SD = 26.7 ± 4.7 kg/m2) without previous treatment for snoring. SB was diagnosed based on the frequency of the biomarker of SB: rhythmic masticatory muscle activity (RMMA; SB when RMMA ≥ 2 episodes/hour). Logistic regression was performed, with SB as the dependent variable and with age, sex, BMI, and sleep- and respiratory-related polysomnographic parameters as the independent variables to identify the risk factors for SB. RESULTS: The prevalence of SB was 44.6% in adults with PS. Younger age (OR = 0.965 [0.944, 0.987]) and shorter total sleep time (OR = 0.760 [0.609, 0.948]) significantly increased the risk of SB (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: SB is highly prevalent in adults with PS. Younger age and shorter sleep time are significant risk factors for SB in adults with PS. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registry: Netherlands Trial Register; Name: A Large Sample Polysomnographic Study on Sleep Bruxism; Identifier: NL8516.

Cannabidiol Intervention for Muscular Tension, Pain, and Sleep Bruxism Intensity-A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial.

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are the most prevalent non-dental pain issues in the maxillofacial region. Despite advancements, diagnosing and managing TMDs continues to pose challenges. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD) formulations, with different concentrations, in patients experiencing sleep bruxism and muscle-related TMDs, with a particular emphasis on their myorelaxant, pain-relieving, and bruxism-reducing properties. Methods: The Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMDs) was utilized as the diagnostic framework. Sixty patients completed the study, which followed a parallel-group, three-arm, randomized, double-blind clinical trial design, with a 1:1:1 allocation ratio across three groups: 1a, 1b, and 2. Groups 1a and 1b received CBD formulations at concentrations of 10% and 5%, respectively, while Group 2 received a placebo formulation. The trial consisted of four main visits, namely screening, baseline, first follow-up after 14 days, and second follow-up after 30 days, during which surface electromyography (sEMG), the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain assessment, and Bruxoff examinations were conducted. Results: The reduction in pain, as measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS), among patients using the 10% CBD formulation was 57.4% (p < 0.05), accompanied by a decrease in sEMG activity by 42.1% (p < 0.05). Conversely, individuals using the 5% CBD formulation experienced a 40.8% (p < 0.05) decrease in pain. Regarding the decrease in the sleep bruxism index, users of the 10% CBD formulation saw the highest reduction of 51% (p < 0.05). These findings underscore the efficacy of the proposed treatment in both experimental groups, with a notable advantage observed in Group 1a. Conversely, the outcomes of the selected variables for the control group did not exhibit significant differences throughout the study. Conclusions: The intraoral use of CBD formulations in patients with TMDs have proven to be a successful treatment for reducing pain, muscle tension, and bruxing activity in individuals with sleep bruxism and muscle-related TMDs. Specifically, a concentration of 10% CBD has demonstrated superior results compared to 5% CBD.

Una Caracterización de la Arquitectura del Sueño en Adultos con Bruxismo del Sueño: Un Estudio Descriptivo Retrospectivo / Characterization of Sleep Architecture in Adults with Sleep Bruxism: A Retrospective Descriptive Study

Objetivo: Caracterizar la arquitectura del sueño en un grupo poblacional de adultos con bruxismo del sueño, en forma general y según sexo.Materiales y método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo, con un muestreo por intención de 33 polisomnografías que identificaban sujetos con bruxismo del sueño, según el “cut off” sugerido por Lavigne et al (25 eventos /hora), entre los años 2011-2019. Se consideraron las variables sexo, edad, peso, talla e índice de masa corporal (IMC). Se determinó la arquitectura del sueño en cuanto a duración de las etapas del sueño, micro despertares y eventos de bruxismo. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las variables y se compraron los resultados entre los sexos.Resultados: En el grupo poblacional 64% eran mujeres y 36% hombres. El promedio de edad fue de 32.5 años, de talla 1.65, de peso 68 kg, con un IMC promedio de 24.89 (peso normal). Los sujetos tuvieron un promedio de 387.6 horas de sueño, 270 minutos en NMOR y 10.8 en MOR, con un promedio de 50 micro despertares durante la noche y de 48.64 eventos de bruxismo por hora. Según sexo los valores en minutos fueron (p>0.05): NMOR (H: 316.2 – M:256.8); MOR (H: 105 – M:104.4); microdespertares (H :58.9 – M: 45.1); Eventos de BS/hora: (H:48.6 – M: 46.6) Los sujetos con BS durmieron, en promedio, un mayor número de minutos en decúbito lateral (196,59).Conclusión: Los sujetos con BS registran determinadas características en la arquitectura del sueño que deben considerarse. No hubo diferencia en la arquitectura del sueño según sexo. (AU)

Objective: To characterize sleep architecture in a population group of adults with sleep bruxism, in general and by sex. Materials and method: Retrospective descriptive study, with intentional sampling of 33 polysomnographies that identified subjects with sleep bruxism,according to the “cut off” suggested by Lavigne et al (25 events /hour/), between the years 2011-2019. The variables sex, age, weight, height and body mass index (BMI) were considered. Sleep architecture was determined in terms of duration of sleep stages, micro-awakenings, and bruxism events. A descriptive anlysis of the variables was carried out and the results were compared between the sexes.Results: In the population group, 64% were women and 36% men. The average age was 32.5 years, height 1.65 m, weight 68 kg, with an average BMI of 24.89 (normal weight). Subjects had an average of 387.6 minutes of sleep, 270 minutes in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and 10.8 in rapid eye movement (REM), with an average of 50 micro-awakenings during the night and 48.64 bruxism events per hour. According to sex, the values in minutes were: NMOR (H:316.2 – M:256.8); MOR (H:105 – M:104.4); microawakenings (H:58.9 – M:45.1); BS events/hour: (H:48.6 – M: 46.6), no significant differences were found between them (p>0.05). Subjects with BS slept, on average, a greater number of minutes in the lateral decubitus position (196.59). Conclusion: Subjects with BS register certain characteristics in their sleep architecture that must be considered. There was no difference in sleeparchitecture according to sex.(AU)

Correlación entre la presencia de apnea del sueño y las fracturas protésicas e implantológicas. Serie de casos clínicos con identificación del proceso y tratamiento con dispositivo de avance mandibular / Correlation between the presence of sleep apnea and prosthetic and implant fractures. Series of clinical cases with identification of the process and treatment with mandibular advancement device

Introducción: La presencia de signos y síntomas dentales en pacientes con apnea obstructiva del sueño (AOS) reconocibles para el odontólogo, nos sitúa en la primera línea de diagnóstico y tratamiento posterior para los pacientes que sufren esta patología. Métodos: Han sido reclutados de forma retrospectiva pacientes con problemas en distintas rehabilitaciones sobre implantes de tipo eminentemente mecánico (fractura de cerámica, de prótesis o de componentes, así como de implantes) a los que se ha realizado una poligrafía respiratoria para poner de manifiesto la posible presencia de un AOS. En aquellos casos donde se ha constatado la presencia de este trastorno, hemos seleccionado los pacientes con un AOS moderado-severo (índice de apnea-hipopnea (IAH) ≥ 20), para analizar los distintos eventos adversos acontecidos en función de la severidad del cuadro. Resultados: Fueron reclutados 22 pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. En todos los pacientes se identificaron eventos adversos, siendo estas complicaciones: fractura de la cerámica de la prótesis (63,6%), fractura estructural de la prótesis en un 18,2% de los casos (estructura en sí misma o recubrimiento de resina en las híbridas) y fracturas o fisuras en los implantes en un 18,2% de los casos. Se realizó un abordaje terapéutico con CPAP (dispositivo de presión continua de oxígeno en vía aérea) unido a un dispositivo de avance mandibular (DIA) en dos pacientes, en el resto solamente DIA. Con el tratamiento finalizado, los pacientes pasaron de una media de IAH de 33,29 (+/- 18,90) a una media de 17,38 (+-10,37), siendo estas diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p<0,001). Conclusiones: El bruxismo y la AOS están íntimamente relacionados, así como los signos dentales de ambos procesos, como son el desgaste y la fractura de dientes, implantes o rehabilitaciones. (AU)

Introduction: The presence of dental signs and symptoms in patients with sleep apnea (OSA) that are recognizable to the dentist places us in the first line of diagnosis and subsequent treatment for patients suffering from this pathology. From problems such as wear and tear and fractures, we can reach a diagnosis of a pathology with great repercussions for the patient and address crucial part of the treatment, such as recovering the vertical dimension and the use of mandibular advancement devices. Material and method: We retrospectively recruited patients who attended our dental clinic with problems in different implant rehabilitations of an eminently mechanical nature (fracture of ceramics, prostheses, or components as well as implants) who underwent respiratory polygraphy to reveal the possible presence of OSA. In those cases where this disorder was found to be present, we selected patients with moderate-severe OSA (apneahypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 20) to analyze the different adverse events that occurred according to the severity of the sleep disorder recorded. Results: Twenty-two patients who met the previously established inclusion criteria were recruited. Adverse events were identified in all patients in their implant restorations, these complications being: fracture of the prosthesis ceramic (63.6%), structural fracture of the prosthesis in 18.2% of the cases (structure itself or resin coating in hybrids) and fractures or cracks in the implants in 18.2% of the cases. The mean AHI (apnea-hypopnea index) of all patients was 33.29 (+/- 18.90; range 20-110). If we analyze the presence of adverse events in the prostheses according to the AHI, we find that most adverse events are concentrated in the higher AHI ranges... (AU)

Del COVID leve al síndrome persistente: evaluación integral de la salud oral / From mild COVID to long COVID: comprehensive oral health assessment

Introducción: El COVID-19 ha causado una amplia sintomatología, incluyendo la presente en la cavidad oral. Cada día cobra más importancia un nuevo síndrome relacionado: el COVID persistente. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar el efecto de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 a nivel oral en sujetos diagnosticados de COVID persistente, en comparación con la infección aguda. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio de casos y controles con 102 sujetos reclutados entre 2021 y 2022, de los que se obtuvieron 34 variables de salud oral y posibles factores de riesgo. Resultados: El análisis estadístico reveló que los sujetos COVID persistente presentaban significativamente mayor prevalencia de: adenopatías, dolor de ATM, irritación faríngea, xerostomía, obturaciones, ausencias y coronas dentales, mayor valor en índices CAOM y CAOD y mayor número de síntomas odontológicos en total. Además, el estrés apareció como factor de riesgo; aquellos pacientes con COVID persistente que presentaron mayor nivel de estrés (7,73 ± 2,02) también eran los que sufrían, en mayor medida, xerostomía o bruxismo, responsable del dolor de ATM, también más prevalente en este grupo. Conclusiones: El COVID persistente provoca manifestaciones orales relacionadas, algunas de ellas, con el hecho de que la cavidad oral sea vía de entrada del virus, como la irritación mucosa; otras, relacionadas con su posible naturaleza autoinmune, como la xerostomía y, de la misma manera, otras relacionadas con el estrés, reflejado en la presencia de bruxismo. Resulta imprescindible desarrollar protocolos que mejoren tanto el diagnóstico precoz como el manejo de estos pacientes en nuestras clínicas. (AU)

Introduction: COVID-19 has caused a wide range of symptomatology, including that present in the oral cavity. A new related syndrome is gaining importance: Long COVID. The aim of this work is to analyse the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection at the oral level in subjects diagnosed with Long COVID, compared to acute infection. Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 102 subjects recruited between 2021 and 2022, from whom 34 oral health variables and possible risk factors were obtained. Results: Statistical analysis revealed that Long COVID subjects had significantly higher prevalence of: adenopathies, TMJ pain, pharyngeal irritation, xerostomia, fillings, dental absences and dental crowns, higher CAOM and CAOD index values and higher total dental symptoms. In addition, stress appeared as a risk factor; those patients with Long COVID who presented a higher level of stress (7.73 ± 2.02) were also those who suffered, to a greater extent, from xerostomia or bruxism, responsible for TMJ pain, also more prevalent in this group. Conclusions: Long COVID causes oral manifestations related, some of them, to the fact that the oral cavity is a route of entry of the virus, such as mucosal irritation; others, related to its possible autoimmune nature, such as xerostomia and, in the same way, others related to stress, reflected in the presence of bruxism. It is essential to develop protocols that improve both the early diagnosis and management of these patients in our clinics. (AU)

Bridging semantics and medical ontology in the definition of bruxism: An argument for a holistic definition.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this commentary is to advocate for a holistic, ontology-based definition of bruxism. The intention is to synthesise the best aspects of current definitions into a structured ontological model, thereby refining and enhancing a comprehensive understanding of the full spectrum of bruxism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The commentary elaborates on the process of integrating these insights into a hierarchical ontology that aligns with ontological principles. SETTINGS AND SAMPLE POPULATION: Not directly applicable as this is a commentary. RESULTS/CONCLUSION: The proposed ontology-based definition of bruxism aims to clarify communication within the medical community and advance research by enabling a comprehensive ontology-based classification of bruxism. By aligning with ontological principles, this approach aspires to act as a catalyst for further research, discussion and consensus in the field.

Application of digital technology in the repair of functional and aesthetic defects in patients with acid erosion and severe attrition: a case report.

Noncarious lesions, a multifactorial condition encompassing tooth attrition, abrasion, and erosion, have a surge in prevalence and required increased attention in clinical practice. These nonbacterial-associated tooth defects can compromise aesthetics, phonetics, and masticatory functions. When providing full-arch fixed occlusal rehabilitation for such cases, the treatment strategy should extend beyond by restoring dentition morphology and aesthetics. This report details a complex case of erosive dental wear addressed through a fully digital, full-arch fixed occlusal rehabilitation. A 4D virtual patient was created using multiple digital data sources, including intraoral scanning, 3D facial scanning, digital facebow registration, and mandibular movement tracing. With a comprehensive understanding of the masticatory system, various types of microinvasive prostheses were customized for each tooth, including labial veneers, buccal-occlusal veneers, occlusal veneers, overlays, inlays, and full crowns, were customized for each tooth. The reported digital workflow offered a predictable diagnostic and treatment strategy, which was facilitated by virtual visualization and comprehensive quality control throughout the process.

Decrypting the putative interrelation between sleep bruxism, masticatory muscle pain and sleep breathing disorders: Nosology and the role of hypoxia.

This commentary on sleep medicine explores whether the potential relationship between sleep bruxism (SB), masticatory muscle pain (MMP) and sleep breathing disorders (SBDs)contributes to improving the management of co-occurring conditions.The paper is divided into 2 sections: (1) reviewing the debate on SB nosology; and (2) based on the publications from the Martynowicz & Wieckiewicz research group, exploringthe role of intermittent hypoxia as a putative mechanism endotype that may link such co-occurrence among individuals for whom characteristics are not yet clear.

Temporomandibular disorders and bruxism - up-to-date assessment and screening tools the general dentist should be aware of.

The recently proposed shortened screening tools for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and bruxism should enable a better assessment of these conditions by the general dentist.

Comparison of ultrasonography-based masticatory muscle thickness between temporomandibular disorders bruxers and temporomandibular disorders non-bruxers.

To compare masticatory muscle thickness in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) during rest and clenching, and by body position, using ultrasonography. This prospective study included 96 patients with TMD (67 females, 29 males; mean age: 40.41 ± 17.88 years): group 1, comprising 66 patients with TMD without bruxism (TMD_nonbruxer), and group 2, comprising 30 patients with concurrent TMD and bruxism (TMD_bruxer). In patients with TMD, bruxism was correlated with the presence of tinnitus, muscle stiffness, sleep problems, psychological stress, and restricted mouth opening. The masseter muscle significantly thickened during clenching (11.16 ± 3.03 mm vs 14.04 ± 3.47 mm, p < 0.001), whereas the temporalis muscle showed no significant increase in thickness from resting to clenching in an upright position (7.91 ± 1.98 vs 8.39 ± 2.08, p = 0.103). Similarly, during clenching in the supine position, the masseter muscle was significantly thicker compared with rest (11.24 ± 2.42 vs 13.49 ± 3.09, p < 0.001), but no significant difference was observed in temporal muscle thickness (8.21 ± 2.16 vs 8.43 ± 1.94, p = 0.464). In comparison between two groups, the average thickness of the masseter muscle was greater among TMD_bruxers than among TMD_nonbruxers in both the upright and supine positions (all p < 0.05). In the generalized lineal model, female sex (B = - 1.018, 95% confidence interval [CI] - 1.855 to - 0.181, p = 0.017) and bruxism (B = 0.868, 95% CI 0.567 to 1.169, p = 0.048) significantly predicted changes in masseter muscle thickness. Female sex (B = - 0.201, 95% CI - 0.299 to - 0.103, p = 0.011), increased age (B = - 0.003, 95% CI - 0.005 to 0.000, p = 0.038), and muscle stiffness (B = - 1.373, 95% CI - 2.369 to - 0.376, p = 0.007) were linked to decreased temporal muscle thickness. Comparing TMD nonbruxer and bruxer muscle thicknesses in upright and supine positions revealed significant increased thickness in the masseter muscle during clenching but not in the temporalis muscle. Masseter muscle thickness varied significantly by sex, body position, and resting/clenching, notably influenced by bruxism. These findings emphasize the relevance of these factors in clinical examinations of patients with TMD.

The relationship between pregnancy and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) through diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD) axis II evaluation: a case-control cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: This study focuses on temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which affect the temporomandibular joint and related muscles and have multiple causes. Recent studies have examined the connection between menstrual cycles, estrogen levels, and TMDs, but results are inconsistent, highlighting the need for more research. The aim is to explore the prevalence of TMDs in pregnant women and consider how hormonal changes during pregnancy might influence these disorders. METHODS: In this cross-sectional case-control study, we compared 32 pregnant women with 35 non-pregnant women. We evaluated several TMD-related factors such as pain levels, chronic pain classification, scores on the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale-20 and Oral Behaviors Checklist, and psychological health. We used various statistical methods including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, linear regression, and adjustments for multiple comparisons to analyze the data. RESULTS: Pregnant women showed different pain perceptions, generally reporting less pain and lower severity. Nonetheless, these differences were not uniform across all TMD-related measures. Linear regression did not find a consistent link between pregnancy and TMD scores, except for chronic pain grade, which was not significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons. There was a significant relationship between depression and TMD severity, emphasizing the need to consider mental health in TMD evaluations. DISCUSSION: The findings suggest that pregnancy is neither a risk nor a protective factor for TMD. Differences in pain perception, functional status, and psychological health were observed in pregnant women but were not consistent for all TMD-related aspects. The role of estrogen in TMJ health and TMD risk is complex and requires further study. The research highlights the necessity of including mental health, especially depression, in TMD assessments. More comprehensive research with larger sample sizes is essential to better understand the connections between pregnancy, TMD, and hormones, aiming to improve TMD management in pregnant women and others.

Relationship Between Occlusal Factors and Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) originate from various components within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing an impact on the masticatory muscles, the joint itself, and associated structures. They are a widely prevalent issue across the world. According to epidemiological research, up to 50% of adults in the population have TMD-related symptoms. The objective of this work was to analyze the existing scientific literature regarding the association between malocclusion classes, bruxism, and tooth loss in relation to the etiology of TMD. This systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 analysis protocol. For the development of the question focus, the population, intervention, control, and outcomes (PICO) study design protocol was used. The question in focus according to the PICO format was: "Do malocclusion, tooth loss, and bruxism contribute to temporomandibular disorders?". The review was performed with articles from PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases according to the specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. The included articles were not older than five years. The risk of bias was assessed in the included studies by using the Cochrane Risk-of-bias 2 (RoB-2) tool. Out of a total of 32 results received, 21 articles were chosen according to the established criteria after conducting a review and analysis of their full texts. The article search sequence was presented in the PRISMA 2020 flow diagram, and the outcomes of the chosen articles were presented. The literature results revealed a relationship between occlusion and the development of TMD. The influence of occlusal factors on the TMJ was explained by an examination of joint anatomy and symptoms related to TMD. This study revealed variations in TMJ factors across different malocclusion classes. Additionally, it was observed that the occurrence and attributes of TMD are influenced by the number of tooth loss quadrants and the frequency of missing teeth. Furthermore, a correlation was found between bruxism and the symptoms of TMD, including myofascial pain, disc displacement, arthralgia, and muscle disorders. This literature review provides comprehensive information on the relationship between malocclusion classes, bruxism, tooth loss, and TMDs. This prompts healthcare professionals to prioritize patients' occlusal assessment and TMJ condition.