What do Brazilian paediatric dentists know about bruxism in children? Cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: Little is known about the knowledge of paediatric dentists on bruxism in children. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the knowledge of paediatric dentists on the concept, associated factors of bruxism and management of sleep bruxism (SB) in children'. METHODS: An electronic questionnaire was sent to paediatric dentists in the state of Goiás, Brazil. Information was collected on (1) characteristics of the participants; (2) the concept of bruxism; (3) diagnosis; (4) associated factors; (5) strategies for the management of SB; and (6) updated knowledge on bruxism in children. The data were analysed descriptively. RESULTS: Fifty-seven paediatric dentists participated (10.7% of the total number of professionals). A high level of agreement was found with statements on the concepts of SB (94.7%) and awake bruxism (96.5%). The main strategy for the diagnosis was the combination of a parental report and a clinical examination (79.0%). Most participants indicated that bruxism is associated with anxiety/stress (96.5%), screen use (93%), airway obstruction (91.2%), and sleep apnoea (91.2%). In suspected cases of bruxism, the dentists would send the child for assessment by other health care providers (87.7%). The management options frequently indicated were the use of an occlusal splint, aromatherapy, and homeopathy. More than 70% of them considered themselves to be updated on the issue and sought information through scientific articles and discussions with colleagues. CONCLUSION: Paediatric dentists have knowledge on the concept of bruxism and associated factors. However, further information is needed on the management of this condition in children.

Is there a relationship between the presence of external root resorption in second molars adjacent to impacted mandibular third molars with awake bruxism and masticatory muscle activity?

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess whether awake bruxism and masticatory muscle activity could be related to external root resorption (ERR) in second molars adjacent to impacted mandibular third molars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty patients, with requests for a cone-beam, computed tomography, were divided into two groups: ERR (patients with ERR in the second molar, n = 30), and control group (n = 30). Awake bruxism was assessed through the Oral Behaviors Checklist (OBC) and an ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to assess the masseter and anterior temporal muscle function. Normality and homogeneity of variances were demonstrated. Descriptive analysis was performed, using the T-test and Chi-square test to compare the characteristics of the groups. A multiple regression model was performed. RESULTS: The ERR group presented more non-functional oral activities related to awake bruxism than the control group, according to OBC (p = 0.027) and EMA (p = 0.035). In addition, the ERR group had higher EMG activity than the control group in rest and isotonic protocols (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Awake bruxism and greater masticatory muscle activity seem to be related to the presence of ERR in second molars adjacent to impacted mandibular third molars. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The results of the present study can reinforce the theory that triggering ERR in the second molars adjacent to impacted mandibular third molars may be related to mechanical forces coming from the masticatory function.

Hard drugs use and tooth wear: a scoping review.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to map evidence on the relationship between hard drug use and dental wear. The scoping review is guided by the question: What is the relationship between hard drug consumption and dental wear? MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adhering to PRISMA-ScR guidelines, searches were conducted across PubMed, Embase, and four databases in March 2024. Inclusion criteria included studies investigating the association between hard drug use and dental wear, regardless of publication date or language. Data were presented through narrative exposition, tables, and a conceptual framework. RESULTS: Twenty-eight studies (four case-control, three cross-sectional, five case reports, and sixteen literature reviews) were included. Among case-control studies, 75% observed an association between drug use and dental erosion; however, no cross-sectional studies demonstrated this association. Despite questionable quality, reviews established connections between drug use and dental erosion. Studies aimed to elucidate potential causes for dental erosion. CONCLUSIONS: Analysis suggests a potential link between hard drug use and dental wear, though indirect. Factors like bruxism and reduced salivary pH may contribute to dental wear among drug users. Further investigation through primary studies exploring this relationship is necessary. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Dentists should focus not only on clinical characteristics of dental wear but also on mediating factors such as bruxism and decreased salivary pH associated with drug use. This holistic approach allows for a deeper understanding of dental wear mechanisms, enabling targeted preventive and therapeutic interventions.

Restablecimiento de guía anterior con restauraciones adhesivas / Reestablishing of anterior guidance with adhesive restorations

La estética ha llegado a formar una parte muy importante en la odontología actual. Sin embargo, no debemos sobreponer las necesidades estéticas sobre las necesidades funcionales. La pérdida de estructura dental asociada a bruxismo puede ser considerada patológica cuando compromete la guía anterior, la cual es la influencia en los movimientos mandibulares que proveen las superficies contactantes de los dientes maxilares anteriores con los mandibulares anteriores y evita contactos excéntricos dañinos en los dientes posteriores. El objetivo de este reporte de caso es presentar una alternativa conservadora para restablecer tanto la estética como la funcionalidad de una paciente de 34 años de edad que acudió a la Clínica de Prostodoncia de la Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara en busca de rehabilitación estética de dientes anteriores. Una vez realizada su evaluación inicial se llegó al diagnóstico de pérdida de guía anterior por desgaste patológico asociado a bruxismo. El tratamiento incluyó tratamientos de conductos, remoción de caries y restauraciones mal ajustadas, coronas y carillas para restablecer la guía anterior. Se cumplieron con las expectativas estéticas que tenía la paciente al igual que con las necesidades funcionales que fueron objetivo desde el inicio, logrando un restablecimiento de la guía anterior de manera conservadora (AU)

Esthetics has become a very important part of dentistry today. However, we should not superimpose esthetic needs over functional needs. The loss of tooth structure associated with bruxism can be considered pathologic when it compromises the anterior guidance, which is the influence on mandibular movements that provides the contacting surfaces of the maxillary anterior teeth with the mandibular anterior teeth and avoids damaging eccentric contacts in the posterior teeth. The aim of this case report is to present a conservative way to restore both esthetics and function in a 34-year-old patient who came to the Prosthodontics Clinic of the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara in search of an esthetic appearance of her anterior teeth. After her initial evaluation, a diagnosis of anterior guide loss due to pathological wear associated with bruxism was made. Treatment included root canal treatment, removal of caries, and ill-fitting restorations, crowns, and veneers to reestablish the anterior guidance. The aesthetic expectations of the patient have met as well as the functional needs that were aimed from the beginning, achieving a conservative reestablishment of the anterior guidance system (AU)

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.

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.

Influence of malocclusion on sleep bruxism and orofacial pain: data from a study in school children.

OBJECTIVES: This cross-sectional school-based study explored the influence of malocclusion on temporomandibular disorders (TMD) pain complaints, and whether this association would be mediated by sleep bruxism in a representative sample of 7- to 8-year-old children. METHODS: Path analysis estimated direct, indirect, and total effects of occlusal features on sleep bruxism and TMD pain in 7- to 8-year-old children. Occlusal features were assessed with Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI), orofacial pain complaints using the TMD pain screener, possible sleep bruxism based on self-reports, and probable sleep bruxism based on self-reports combined with clinical findings. Structural equation modeling analyzed data with confounding factors. RESULTS: From 580 participants, possible sleep bruxism was observed in 136 children (31.5%), probable sleep bruxism in 30 children (6.7%), and TMD pain complaints in 78 children (13.8%). Malocclusion had no direct effect on either possible sleep bruxism [standardized coefficient (SC) 0.000; p = 0.992], or TMD pain complaints (SC - 0.01; p = 0.740). When probable sleep bruxism was set as the mediator of interest, malocclusion did not directly affect probable sleep bruxism (SC 0.01; p = 0.766), nor TMD pain complaints (SC - 0.02; p = 0.515). A direct effect of probable sleep bruxism on TMD pain complaints was observed with an SC of 0.60 (p < 0.001). However, in neither case, malocclusion indirectly affected TMD pain complaints via bruxism. CONCLUSION: Malocclusion in 7- to 8-year-old children did not directly influence possible or probable sleep bruxism or TMD pain complaints. Instead, probable sleep bruxism was strongly associated with TMD pain complaints. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The impact of occlusal features on TMD pain complaints and bruxism has been a long-standing controversy in dentistry. However, the scientific literature linking this association may be inconsistent, mainly due to biased sample selection methods with inadequate consideration of confounders. Further research should try to identify additional risk factors for TMD pain in addition to probable sleep bruxism in children.

Self-reported bruxism in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder.

OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to investigate the association between self-reported awake/sleep bruxism, and orofacial pain with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS: A case-control study with a convenience sample was designed. Participants were recruited from a university-based Trauma Ambulatory. The diagnosis of PTSD was established through a clinical interview and the Structured Clinical Interview (SCID-I/P). Thirty-eight PTSD patients and 38 controls completed the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders Axis-II to categorize awake/sleep bruxism and orofacial pain. Following this, we performed a short clinical examination of the temporomandibular joint and extraoral muscles. RESULTS: Adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that awake bruxism was associated with PTSD (OR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.01-11.27, p = 0.047). Sleep bruxism was not associated with any covariate included in the model. In a Poisson regression model, PTSD (IRR = 3.01, 95% CI = 1.38-6.55, p = 0.005) and the muscle pain/discomfort (IRR = 5.12, 95% CI = 2.80-9.36, p < 0.001) were significant predictors for current orofacial pain. CONCLUSIONS: PTSD was associated with self-reported awake bruxism and low-intensity orofacial pain. These conditions were frequent outcomes in patients previously exposed to traumatic events. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: We suggest including a two-question screening for bruxism in psychiatry/psychology interviews to improve under-identification and to prevent harmful consequences at the orofacial level.

Probable sleep and awake bruxism in adolescents: A path analysis.

BACKGROUND: Bruxism has a multifactorial etiology, including the influence of sleep characteristics and chronotypes. AIM: To identify the pathways that influence the occurrence of probable sleep bruxism (PSB) and probable awake bruxism (PAB) in adolescents. DESIGN: A total of 403 adolescents, aged 12-19 years, participated in the study. Parents/caregivers filled out a questionnaire about sociodemographic issues and the adolescent's health conditions, and the adolescents about sleep characteristics, occurrence of bruxism (based on previous study and the International Consensus of Bruxism), and chronotype (Circadian Energy Scale). Clinical examinations were performed. Statistical analysis included descriptive analysis and path analysis. RESULTS: PSB and PAB are related to each other, with moderate and positive correlation (ß = .390). Poor sleep quality and higher household income had a direct effect on both PSB (ß = -.138; ß = .123, respectively) and PAB (ß = -.155; ß = .116, respectively). Chronotype had a direct effect on PSB, in such a way that adolescents with a morningness chronotype tend to have PSB (ß = -.102). Adolescents that drool on the pillow (ß = .184) and/or have agitated sleep (ß = .104) tend to have PSB. CONCLUSION: Poor sleep quality, household income, morningness chronotype profile, drooling on the pillow, and agitated sleep influence the paths taken by PSB. PAB was influenced by the quality of sleep and family income.

Autistic individuals have worse oral status than neurotypical controls: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

OBJECTIVE: To compare dental caries, oral hygiene, periodontal status, bruxism, malocclusion, tooth loss, and salivary alterations between autistic and typical developing individuals. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational studies presenting clinical measures of oral outcomes between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) individuals and controls. EMBASE, LILACS, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ProQuest were searched up to June 26, 2023. Pairs of reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and assessments of methodological quality and certainty of evidence. Meta-analyses of standardized mean differences (SMD) and risk ratio (RR) were performed. RESULTS: A total of 47 studies comprising 6885 autistic individuals were included in the review. Autistic individuals had significantly higher severity of dental-caries experience in primary teeth (SMD 0.29, 95%CI 0.02, 0.56), of dental plaque presence (SMD 0.59, 95%CI 0.24, 0.94), and of gingivitis (SMD 0.45, 95%CI 0.02, 0.88). Autistic individuals showed higher probability of occurrence of gingivitis (RR 1.34, 95%CI 1.08, 1.66,), bruxism (RR 4.23, 95%CI 2.32, 7.74), overjet (RR 2.16, 95%CI 1.28, 3.64), overbite (RR 1.62, 95%CI 1.02, 2.59), crossbite (RR 1.48, 95%CI 1.02, 2.13), and openbite (RR 2.37, 95%CI 1.46, 3.85), when compared to neurotypical individuals. Most estimates showed a small effect size with very low certainty of evidence. CONCLUSION: Autistic individuals show worse oral health status than controls. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The findings reported herein can help to build health policies to better serve autistic individuals including prevention actions and access to specialized dental care.

Benefits of the combination of digital and analogic tools as a strategy to control possible awake bruxism: A randomised clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Awake Bruxism (AB) management includes cognitive and behavioural changes. Digital and analogic tools can be used to remind the individual to control/avoid AB behaviours. However, no study addressed both tools together. OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of the combination of digital (smartphone application) and analogic (adhesive reminders) tools versus digital tool alone for AB management. METHODS: Seventy-two individuals diagnosed with probable AB were divided into 3 groups: Group 1 (n = 24), used both digital and analogic tools during 30 days; Group 2 (n = 24), used only a digital tool during 30 days and Group 3 (n = 24), used only a digital tool for the first 15 days and then added the analogic tool for 15 days. The AB frequency was measured in real-time with a smartphone app, which sent alerts asking the individuals if they were doing any AB behaviours (bracing, teeth contact, clenching or grinding). Groups were compared using one-way ANOVA and before-after adding an analogic tool (group 3) by paired t-test, considering α = 0.05. RESULTS: All groups showed a decrease in AB behaviours at the end of the evaluation period. Group 1 (digital and analogic tools) showed the lowest average of AB behaviours among all groups; however, statistically significant differences were found only for the comparison between groups 1 and 2. In group 3, a significantly greater reduction in AB behaviours was found after combining both approaches. CONCLUSION: The combination of digital and analogic tools showed the greatest reduction of AB frequency and can be recommended for AB control.

Effects of different interventions on bruxism: an overview of systematic reviews.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate, qualify, and summarize evidence presented in systematic reviews (SR) on treatments for bruxism. METHODS: The overview was conducted using the PICO strategy: children, adolescents, and adults with bruxism (P) were submitted to different treatments (I) compared to other treatments, placebo, or no treatment (C) in order to evaluate incidence, prevalence, and number of episodes of bruxism (O). The search was carried out in six databases and gray literature up to July 2023. Data were extracted, and the ROBS tool was used, followed by a descriptive synthesis of the results. RESULTS: A total of 31 SR were included. Sixteen showed a positive effect on episodes of bruxism (BE), while two had negative, one had neutral, and nine had inconclusive effects. Using the risk of bias in systematic reviews tool (ROBIS), risk of bias varied from low (n = 23) to high (n = 5) among the SR. Pharmacological treatment, oral rehabilitation, and other therapeutic approaches presented inconclusive or negative effects on BE, while oral appliances showed controversial effects. Biofeedback, physical therapy, laser therapy, and botulinum toxin showed positive effects on the reduction of BE. CONCLUSION: Biofeedback, physical therapy, laser therapy, and botulinum toxin showed positive effects on the reduction of BE; there is still a lack of studies to support the safe and long-term use of these therapies. REGISTRATION NUMBER: PROSPERO CRD42021273905.

A worldwide bibliometric analysis of the research trends and hotspots of bruxism in adults during 1991-2021.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: With the increasing attention to bruxism, the research on bruxism is increasing rapidly. However, there is still a lack of systematic bibliometric analysis in the field of bruxism in adults. This study aimed to comprehensively explore and visualize the global trends and research hotspots in the field of bruxism in adults during 1991-2021. METHODS: The study searched the literature published during 1991-2021 in the Web of Science Core Collection database without language restrictions. VOSviewer, CiteSpace and Microsoft Excel were applied to analyse the authors, institutions, journals, countries, cited references, keywords and other information of the included publications, and construct visualized cooperation networks. RESULTS: A total of 878 articles were finally included. The top two most productive authors in the past 30 years were Lobbezoo F and Manfredini D. ACTA-Amsterdam, Univ Sao Paulo, Univ Helsinki, Univ Padua, Univ Montreal, et al. were prominent institutions in this field. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation made outstanding contributions in this field. The United States produced the most documents in this field, followed by Brazil. Both countries and authors cooperated closely around the world. The two most cited articles focused on the definition, assessment and classification of bruxism. In recent years, diagnostic criteria and stress have begun to receive a lot of attention. CONCLUSION: From 1991 to 2021, the attention to bruxism in adults continued to increase. Diagnostic criteria and stress may be potential research hotspots in this field. This study references relevant scholars on development trends and research hotspots.

Secondary bruxism: A valid diagnosis or just a coincidental finding of additional masticatory muscle activity? A narrative review of literature.

INTRODUCTION: Bruxism is defined as a repetitive masticatory muscle activity that can manifest it upon awakening (awake bruxism-AB) or during sleep (sleep bruxism-SB). Some forms of both, AB and SB can be associated to many other coexistent factors, considered of risk for the initiation and maintenance of the bruxism. Although controversial, the term 'secondary bruxism' has frequently been used to label these cases. The absence of an adequate definition of bruxism, the non-distinction between the circadian manifestations and the report of many different measurement techniques, however, are important factors to be considered when judging the literature findings. The use (and abuse) of drugs, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and psychoactive substances, the presence of respiratory disorders during sleep, gastroesophageal reflux disorders and movement, neurological and psychiatric disorders are among these factors. The scarcity of controlled studies and the complexity and interactions among all aforementioned factors, unfortunately, does not allow to establish any causality or temporal association with SB and AB. The supposition that variables are related depends on different parameters, not clearly demonstrated in the available studies. OBJECTIVES: This narrative review aims at providing oral health care professionals with an update on the co-risk factors and disorders possibly associated with bruxism. In addition, the authors discuss the appropriateness of the term 'secondary bruxism' as a valid diagnostic category based on the available evidence. CONCLUSION: The absence of an adequate definition of bruxism, the non-distinction between the circadian manifestations and the report of many different measurement techniques found in many studies preclude any solid and convincing conclusion on the existence of the 'secondary' bruxism.

Level of knowledge of pediatric dentists on awake and sleep bruxism in children / Nível de conhecimento de odontopediatras sobre bruxismo em vigília e do sono em crianças

Objetivo: Avaliar o conhecimento dos odontopediatras sobre o bruxismo em crianças e discutir o tema de acordo com as evidências científicas atuais. Material e Métodos: 425 odontopediatras preencheram um formulário online composto por 17 afirmações sobre bruxismo em crianças durante a vigília e o sono. Os dados foram interpretados de duas formas distintas: conhecimento do participante e conhecimento das afirmações. O conhecimento do participante foi considerado aceitável quando pelo menos 10 das 17 afirmações foram respondidas corretamente. O conhecimento das afirmações foi considerado satisfatório quando foi respondido corretamente por, pelo menos, 70% dos participantes. Resultados: O número médio de respostas corretas foi de 9,73 (±3,41). Cinquenta e dois por cento dos participantes demonstraram conhecimentos aceitáveis e apenas 4 afirmações obtiveram uma percentagem de respostas consideradas satisfatórias. Conclusão: O conhecimento dos odontopediatras sobre o bruxismo em crianças em vigília e durante o sono é deficiente, sugerindo-se a educação continuada sobre o tema, a fim de evitar diagnósticos equivocados e condutas inadequadas (AU)

Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of pediatric dentists concerning bruxism in children and explore the subject according to the latest scientific evidence. Material and Methods: Four hundred and twenty-five pediatric dentists filled out an online form comprising 17 statements regarding awake and sleep bruxism in children. Data was analyzed in two distinct ways: participant's knowledge and statements knowledge. Participant ́s knowledge was considered acceptable when at least 10 out of 17 statements were correctly answered. Statements knowledge was considered satisfactory when correctly answered by, at least, 70% of the participants. Results: The average of correct answers was 9.73 (±3.41). Fifty-two percent of the participants showed acceptable knowledge and only 4 statements obtained a percentage of answers considered satisfactory. Conclusion: The knowledge of pediatric dentists regarding awake and sleep bruxism in children is deficient, and continuous education concerning this topic is suggested to avoid misdiagnosis and inadequate management (AU)

Did Perceived Stress Influence Possible Sleep Bruxism and Awake Bruxism in Dentistry Students During COVID-19 Pandemic? A Web-Based Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the influence of perceived stress during the COVID-19 pandemic over awake bruxism (AB) and sleep bruxism (SB). Material and Methods: Observational web-based research carried out in a state in the Brazilian Northeast. The sample was composed of dental students from seven faculties, divided into three groups: beginning (1-4 semesters), middle (5-7), and end (8-10). An online questionnaire was constructed: Socio-demographic, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Self-reported AB and SB, and COVID-19 Fear Scale. Data were collected from April to June 2021 by sending the questionnaire through WhatsApp®, e-mail, and Instagram®. After bivariate analyses, a multiple logistic regression model was performed to discriminate variables for perceived stress and AB and SB. Hosmer and Lemeshow and chi-square tests were used to check the model's goodness of fit. Results: A total of 391 dental students participated in this research - most women (69.8%), unmarried (69.8%), family income less than three minimum wages (60.9%), self-reported physical activity (63.3%). Perceived stress was low to moderate (72.1%), SB was 39.6%, AB was 49.6%, and low COVID-19 fear was 81.1%. COVID-19 fear (3.03), being female (2.47), and using psychotropic (2.53) increases the chance of being stressed. Perceived stress can predict AB in models 1 (p=0.008) and 4 (p=0.039). There was no significance for perceived stress and SB. Conclusion: Perceived stress during the COVID-19 pandemic influenced awake bruxism.

Social capital and possible bruxism during the COVID-19 pandemic among Brazilian undergraduates.

This study investigated the prevalence of possible bruxism and its association with social capital among undergraduates during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a private university in Southern Brazil. Data were collected through a self-administered electronic questionnaire (Google Forms). Possible bruxism was measured using the following question: "Do you grind your teeth or clench your jaws?". Social capital was evaluated using individual social networks. Data on self-perceived oral health, anxiety, sociodemographics, and information related to university graduates were also collected. Adjusted logistic regression models with a hierarchical approach were used to evaluate associations. The results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs). Altogether, 345 undergraduates participated in the study, with a mean age of 21.8 years (standard deviation = 5.21). The prevalence of bruxism in the sample was 57.1%. Undergraduates with low social capital had 2.06 times greater odds of bruxism than their counterparts (OR 2.06; 95%CI 1.11-3.83). Female undergraduates (OR 2.40, 95%CI 1.39-4.12), those who were in the final year of university (OR 1.13, 95%CI 1.04-1.21), and those who perceived they needed dental treatment (OR 1.91; CI: 1.21-3.02) also had greater odds of possible bruxism. In conclusion, the prevalence of possible bruxism was high among undergraduate students during the COVID-19 pandemic and associated with lower social capital levels. Knowledge of these factors is important to identify risk groups and plan strategies to control bruxism in this population.

Do myofascial trigger points in masseter muscles affect the symptoms of disc displacement with reduction? A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to demonstrate the effect of myofascial pain with referral from the trigger points in the masseter muscles on the clinical symptoms and functional limitations of the temporomandibular joint in participants with disc displacement with reduction. METHODS: This prospective, cross-sectional study recruited participants aged 18-45 years with disc displacement with reduction with/without myofascial pain with referral in the masseter muscles based on the inclusion criteria. Maximum mouth opening and the presence of probable awake bruxism were assessed. The "Graded Chronic Pain Scale version 2.0" and "Jaw Function Limitation Scale-8" were used to evaluate Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders Axis II. Pain levels were measured using the Visual Analog Scale. RESULTS: A comparison between the disc displacement with reduction and disc displacement with reduction+myofascial pain with referral groups revealed statistically significant differences in Visual Analog Scale (p<0.001), the presence of awake bruxism (p=0.038), and Graded Chronic Pain Scale version 2.0 (p=0.010). However, no statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups concerning maximum mouth opening and Jaw Function Limitation Scale-8. CONCLUSION: Participants with both disc displacement with reduction and myofascial pain with referral in the masseter muscle exhibited higher pain intensity, a higher prevalence of awake bruxism, and increased pain-related disability compared to those with disc displacement with reduction alone.

Prevalence of awake bruxism in the adult population: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the prevalence of awake bruxism (AB) in the adult population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six main electronic databases and three sources of grey literature were searched to identify cross-sectional studies in which AB was assessed. The studies were independently selected by two reviewers in two phases, based on their eligibility criteria. The first one consisted of reading titles and abstracts, and the second one involved reading the full articles. The study quality assessment was obtained by using the "Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data", and the "R Statistics" software was used to perform meta-analyses. RESULTS: Seventeen out of 3086 identified studies were included. None of the studies scored high in methodological quality across all 9 items of the JBI checklist. However, "the use of valid methods to identify pathology" and "appropriate statistical analysis" were considered to have high methodological quality in all the studies. The overall pooled prevalence of the meta-analysis was 15.44% (99% confidence interval: 10.81 to 20.72%) and there was no difference for sex, sampling method and according to consensus-based classification. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of AB in adults was low. There was substantial methodological variability, which highlights the need for standardized guidelines. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Prevalence data are useful for raising patients' and clinicians' awareness of the AB. Moreover, since AB can lead to possible pain and overload of the stomatognathic system, this knowledge can also guide dentists to achieve an early diagnosis of AB and to provide appropriate care management.