Clinical Research Directory

Low-Level Laser Therapy Versus Occlusal Splint Therapy for Bruxism in Children

Many children grind or clench their teeth, especially during sleep. Doctors call this bruxism. It can wear down teeth and cause jaw pain. This study compared two treatments for bruxism in children. One treatment uses a low-level laser. The other treatment is a custom mouth guard, worn at night. Thirty children, ages 6 to 12, took part. Twenty had bruxism. Researchers put these children into one of two groups by chance. One group got laser treatment. The other group wore a mouth guard. Ten more children did not have bruxism. They got no treatment. This group helped researchers compare results. Before and after treatment, researchers measured how hard each child could bite. They also asked about jaw pain, and how satisfied parents and children were. Children who received laser treatment could bite harder after treatment. The mouth guard group showed no change in biting strength. Both treatments lowered jaw pain. Most parents and children were satisfied with their treatment. These results suggest laser therapy may help children's jaw muscles work normally again.

Influence Of Different Relaxation Techniques On Stress Level For Patients With Bruxism Using Salivary Biomarkers.

This study will compare the effect of three different physical therapy techniques on stress level on patients with bruxism by assessment of morning salivary biomarkers.

Botulinum Toxin-A for Bruxism Using Digital Occlusal Analysis

Bruxism is a repetitive jaw-muscle activity that may lead to tooth wear, muscle pain, headaches, and functional limitations. Current diagnostic approaches mainly rely on self-reported symptoms and clinical examination findings, which may not accurately reflect ongoing muscle activity. Digital occlusal analysis systems offer an objective method for evaluating bite force and occlusal function. The aim of this randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial is to investigate whether a digital occlusal analysis system can objectively assess bruxism and monitor treatment response following Botulinum Toxin-A (BTX-A) injections. Thirty-six adults diagnosed with bruxism will be randomly assigned to receive either BTX-A injections or placebo injections into the masseter muscles. Clinical examinations, patient-reported outcomes, and digital occlusal measurements will be collected at baseline and at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment. Primary outcomes include bite force characteristics, force distribution, occlusion time, disocclusion time, and center of force. Secondary outcomes include pain intensity, maximum mouth opening, muscle tenderness, functional limitation scores, and self-reported bruxism-related symptoms. This study aims to provide objective evidence regarding the usefulness of digital occlusal analysis in the diagnosis and follow-up of bruxism and to evaluate the effectiveness of Botulinum Toxin-A treatment using both objective and subjective outcome measures.

Efficacy and Safety of HA35 Gel Nighttime Occlusive Application for TMD Pain

This is a prospective, single-arm, open-label, pilot clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nighttime occlusive application of 10% high-concentration 35 kDa hyaluronan (HA35) gel in subjects with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Eligible participants will apply HA35 gel to the TMJ area nightly under occlusive conditions for 8-12 hours. The primary objectives are to assess rapid pain relief and muscle over-tension reduction at 60 seconds and 12 hours after application. Safety and local tolerability will be evaluated throughout the study period. This is a minimal-risk, non-pharmacological, non-invasive intervention.

Synchronous vs Asynchronous Telerehabilitation for Bruxism

The goal of this clinical trial was to learn if online exercise and self-massage programs could lower pain and improve jaw movement in adults with bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching). The main questions it aimed to answer were: Did live video exercise guided by a physical therapist lower jaw pain more than an independent video exercise program? Did live video exercise guided by a physical therapist improve mouth opening more than an independent video exercise program? Researchers compared live video sessions to independent video exercises to see which approach worked better for improving jaw function, sleep quality, and daily life. Participants: Completed an 8-session exercise and self-massage program over 4 weeks (2 times each week). Either practiced live with a physical therapist over video calls or followed recorded video exercises on their own at home. Answered surveys about pain, sleep quality, and oral health before and after the 4-week program. Had their mouth opening, jaw muscle sensitivity, and muscle activity tested before and after the program.

Biochemical Factors in Patients With and Without Bruxism

This observational case-control study aimed to compare biochemical factors related to calcium metabolism between adults with and without bruxism. Participants were classified into bruxism and control groups based on self-reported bruxism behaviors assessed using the BRUX Scale together with standardized clinical examination findings. Serum vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, albumin, and albumin-corrected calcium levels were evaluated and compared between the two groups. The study aimed to determine whether these biochemical parameters differ between individuals with and without bruxism and to provide further insight into their potential relationship with bruxism

Short-Term Symptom Changes in Adults With Teeth Clenching or Grinding and Jaw Symptoms Receiving Splint, Botulinum Toxin, or Medication Plus Splint Care

This prospective observational study evaluated short-term patient-reported symptom changes in adults with bruxism-related and temporomandibular disorder symptoms who received one of three clinically selected management approaches: occlusal splint therapy, botulinum toxin type A injection, or short-term pharmacotherapy combined with splint therapy. Management selection reflected routine clinical decision-making based on clinical indication, symptom profile, shared decision-making, and patient preference and was not determined by random allocation. Symptom severity was assessed at baseline and after 3 months using the Fonseca Anamnestic Index. The primary objective was to describe the 3-month change in total Fonseca Anamnestic Index scores within the clinically selected cohorts and to explore whether longitudinal change patterns differed among them. Selected Fonseca Anamnestic Index items, severity-category changes, and clinically recorded treatment-related adverse events were also evaluated as secondary outcomes.

Botulinum Toxin Type A Versus Oral Ibuprofen for Bruxism

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of Botulinum Toxin Type A compared with oral ibuprofen in reducing pain and improving oral health-related quality of life in patients with sleep bruxism and jaw muscle pain. Forty participants diagnosed with sleep bruxism were randomly assigned to receive either Botulinum Toxin Type A injections into the masseter and temporalis muscles or oral ibuprofen therapy. Participants were followed for 20 weeks. The primary outcome was pain intensity measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes included oral health-related quality of life assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14), muscle tenderness, and mandibular function.

The Effect of Bruxism on Balance

This study will investigate the effect of bruxism on dynamic balance in desk-bound individuals. Participants will be divided into two groups based on whether they are diagnosed with bruxism or not. Dynamic balance and proprioception will be compared between individuals from each group.

Effects of Different Graston Technique Application Speeds on Trapezius Muscle Stiffness, Pressure Pain Threshold, Pain, and Muscle Oxygenation in Patients With Bruxism

This randomized crossover study aims to address an important gap in manual therapy by examining the acute physiological effects of different Graston Technique application speeds (60 BPM vs. 120 BPM) on the dominant upper trapezius muscle in patients with bruxism. Although the Graston Technique is widely used, the specific impact of application speed on parameters such as muscle stiffness, muscle oxygenation, pressure pain threshold, and pain intensity remains under-investigated. By utilizing a crossover design with a 1-week washout period, this study allows for a precise within-subject comparison of the two speeds. The findings will clarify the optimal application frequency, providing objective data to guide the development of more effective, evidence-based manual therapy protocols for bruxism management.

Effects of Cervical and Sacroiliac Mobilization Combined With Pilates on Bruxism

This study investigated the effects of adding cervical and sacroiliac mobilization to a Pilates-based exercise program on pain, perceived stress, pain catastrophizing, kinesiophobia, jaw functional limitation, cervical range of motion, cervical joint position error, and sacroiliac joint screening findings in individuals with bruxism. Thirty-eight participants were randomly allocated to a Pilates-only group (n=19) or a Manual Therapy + Pilates group (n=19). Both groups completed an 8-week, twice-weekly Pilates protocol (16 sessions); the Manual Therapy + Pilates group additionally received cervical and sacroiliac mobilization.

Evaluation of Salivary Biomarkers in Individuals With Bruxism

The goal of this observational study is to evaluate salivary biomarkers and perceived stress in adults with bruxism compared with healthy individuals. The study aims to determine whether salivary cortisol, immunoglobulin A (IgA), free kappa light chain (FLC-κ), free lambda light chain (FLC-λ), total free light chains, and perceived stress levels differ between individuals with bruxism and healthy controls. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Do salivary cortisol, IgA, FLC-κ, FLC-λ, and total free light chain levels differ between individuals with bruxism and healthy controls? * Is perceived stress associated with changes in salivary biomarkers in individuals with bruxism? Researchers will compare participants with bruxism and healthy control participants to evaluate differences in salivary biomarker levels and perceived stress. Participants will: * undergo a clinical examination for the diagnosis of bruxism or confirmation of healthy status; * complete the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) questionnaire; * provide an unstimulated saliva sample for laboratory analysis of cortisol, IgA, free kappa light chain, free lambda light chain, and total free light chains.

Effect of Marjoram, Vetiver, and Lavender Oil in the Treatment of Bruxism

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of the use of lavender, marjoram and vetiver oil via inhalation and/or massage application on the treatment of bruxism.

Vertical Facial Morphology and Occlusal Force Changes After Masseter Botulinum Toxin Injection in Bruxism

This study investigated whether the shape of the face affects how jaw muscles respond to botulinum toxin injections in people who grind their teeth (bruxism). Participants were divided into two groups based on their facial structure: low-angle (shorter face height) and normal-angle. Each participant received botulinum toxin type A injections into the masseter (jaw) muscle. Bite force measurements were taken before and 15 days after the injection using the T-Scan computerized occlusal analysis system. The study aimed to determine whether facial structure influences the early changes in bite force balance following the injection.

Temporomandibular Disorders and Bruxism in Elite Basketball Referees

This study aims to determine the frequency of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and bruxism in elite basketball referees and to compare the findings with healthy controls. Basketball referees are exposed to high stress levels and maintain a prolonged parafunctional activity by holding a whistle between their teeth during matches, which may increase the risk of TMD and bruxism. Participants will be evaluated using the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD), including Axis I and Axis II assessments. Additionally, ultrasonographic measurements of the masseter and temporalis muscle thickness will be performed both at rest and during clenching. The relationship between TMD, bruxism and ultrasonographic findings will be analyzed.

Bruxism Therapy of Facial Pain

This prospective, non-profit study aims to better understand how occlusal splints (gnathological splints) affect daytime and nighttime bruxism (teeth grinding) and clenching in adults with chronic myofascial pain of the jaw muscles, a common form of temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Bruxism and clenching are repetitive or sustained jaw muscle activities that can contribute to jaw pain and dysfunction, and their accurate diagnosis requires instrumental assessment of muscle activity. In this study, muscle activity will be objectively measured using a portable device (dia-BRUXO®) worn for 24 hours, which records the electrical activity of the chewing muscles during both wakefulness and sleep. Adult patients with TMD who are prescribed a night-time occlusal splint will undergo three 24-hour recordings: before using the splint, two weeks after starting treatment, and two months later. During each recording, participants will also report their facial pain levels and awareness of clenching or grinding during the day. Their results will be compared with those of a matched control group without TMD. The main goal is to compare jaw muscle activity between patients and healthy individuals, while secondary goals include analyzing how long the muscles are active and how these patterns relate to symptoms. By combining objective measurements and patient-reported experiences, this study seeks to clarify how occlusal splints influence muscle activity and symptoms, helping clinicians improve diagnosis and treatment of bruxism and TMD.

Impact of Distress Level, Sleep Quality and Occlusal Trauma on Periodontal Status Among Bruxers

Increased distress levels and impaired sleep quality are known to exacerbate bruxism by enhancing masticatory muscle activity, leading to excessive and prolonged occlusal forces. These abnormal forces may result in occlusal trauma, which can compromise the adaptive capacity of the periodontal tissues by increasing tooth mobility, widening the periodontal ligament space, and accelerating alveolar bone loss, particularly in the presence of existing periodontal inflammation. Although occlusal trauma alone may not initiate periodontal disease, it can act as an important modifying factor in disease progression. Despite the recognized individual associations of distress, sleep quality, bruxism, and periodontal health, limited evidence exists regarding their combined impact on periodontal status among bruxers. Therefore, evaluating the influence of distress level, sleep quality, and occlusal trauma on periodontal status is essential to better understand disease progression and to facilitate comprehensive, multidisciplinary management strategies for individuals with bruxism.

Psychological Resilience, Perceived Stress and Periodontal Status Among Bruxers

The present study aims to evaluate psychological resilience as a modifier of the relationship between perceived stress and periodontal status among bruxers. Given that both stress and inflammation share common neuroendocrine and immunological pathways, resilience may play a crucial role in buffering stress-induced periodontal breakdown. Understanding this relationship could shift periodontal management toward a biopsychosocial model, integrating psychological assessment and resilience enhancement with conventional non-surgical therapy. Such insights could help design personalized periodontal care strategies addressing both biological and psychological determinants of disease progression.

Comparison of Dry Needling and Two Botulinum Toxins for Bruxism

1. Aim: The aim of this study is to prospectively compare the clinical efficacy of Dry Needling (DN), Nabota (PrabotulinumtoxinA), and Dysport (AbobotulinumtoxinA) treatments on the thickness of masseter and anterior temporal muscles and pain intensity (VAS) in patients diagnosed with chronic bruxism. 2. Material and Method: This randomized, prospective, and single-blind clinical study will be conducted on 60 patients diagnosed with bruxism. Patients will be divided into three groups: Dry Needling (n=20), Nabota (n=20), and Dysport (n=20). Pain levels will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at baseline, 1st month, and 3rd month. Muscle thicknesses will be measured using ultrasonography (USG) at baseline and 3rd month. Data distribution will be analyzed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test; intergroup comparisons will be performed using ANOVA and Post-hoc Duncan tests. 3. Results:The results will be analyzed following the completion of the 3-month follow-up period

Bruxism, Anxiety, and Periodontal Status Among Dental Students

This observational cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the relationship between bruxism, anxiety, and periodontal status among fourth- and fifth-year dental students at Al-Hawash Private University. Bruxism is a parafunctional habit that may be influenced by psychological stress and anxiety, and it may be associated with periodontal changes. Dental students are an important population to study due to their academic workload and potential stress exposure. The study will assess probable bruxism, anxiety levels, and periodontal parameters to identify possible associations between these variables.

Chewing Muscles in Bruxers

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between autonomic nervous system activity and tonus, stiffness and elasticity of temporalis and masseter muscles in individuals with bruxism and to compare them with healthy controls.

Impact of Subgingival Instrumentation on Jaw Symptoms of Probable Bruxers Among Patients With Periodontitis

This study aims to explore the mechanisms by which periodontal disease affects the bruxers and to assess the impact of subgingival instrumentation on jaw symptoms of probable bruxers among patients with periodontitis .

Effect of Occlusal Splint on Head and Neck Muscles in Patients With Bruxism and Myofascial Pain

The study group will be selected from patients who previously presented with various temporomandibular disorder (TMD) complaints to the "Temporomandibular Disorders Clinic" of the Department of Complete and Removable Dentures at the Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul University. During routine examinations, TMD-DC (Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders) forms are completed to aid in achieving an accurate diagnosis. Subsequently, patients suspected of having TMD of masticatory muscle origin but without a definitive diagnosis are routinely referred for ultrasonographic (USG) imaging. Patients meeting these criteria will be included in the study. Participants will be divided into two groups. The first group will consist of patients who have already undergone USG imaging during their routine examination, have been definitively diagnosed with masticatory muscle disorders based on clinical and radiographic findings, and have initiated routine occlusal splint therapy in the clinic. The 12-week treatment process of these patients will not be altered in any way. At the final follow-up session after the 12-week routine treatment protocol, the TMD-DC form completed at baseline will be re-administered, and the two forms will be compared to evaluate changes in symptoms and pain levels. Another USG imaging will also be performed at this session. The second group, serving as the control group, will include patients who have previously undergone USG imaging during routine examination and have received a definitive diagnosis of masticatory muscle disorders based on clinical and radiographic evaluations, but have not yet begun treatment. Patients whose turn for treatment begins during the study period will be excluded from this group. At the end of the 12-week period, the TMD-DC form will be re-administered, and a second USG imaging will be performed. This process will not interfere with the patients' position in the treatment queue, and treatment will commence as scheduled. In the second USG session, changes in the thickness and elasticity of the masseter, temporalis, trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and splenius capitis muscles will be assessed by comparing the two imaging records.

Comparison of the Effects of Different Massage Techniques in Individuals With Bruxism

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of occlusal splint therapy and different massage techniques on pain intensity and orofacial muscle tone and stiffness in individuals with possible sleep bruxism. A secondary aim is to evaluate the effects of these interventions on oral parafunctional behaviors, disability, and sleep quality.