title: Nocturnal bruxism and temporomandibular disorders.
abstract: This chapter has discussed the important aspects of nocturnal bruxism and its relation to disorders of the masticatory system and headaches. Bruxism is believed to be a stress-related sleep disorder, occurring in both men and women, in children, and in adults. In most patients, bruxism results only in minor tooth wear; however, it can become extremely severe with damage occurring in essentially every part of the masticatory apparatus. Nocturnal bruxism should not be overlooked as an etiologic factor in muscular headaches. Short-term acute therapy may involve physical therapy, nocturnal electromyographic biofeedback, and medication to relieve anxiety and improve sleep. Long-term management usually includes some form of stress reduction, change in lifestyle, and an occlusal splint or nightguard to protect the teeth and masticatory system.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284.
authors.forename: J D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Rugh
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Harlan
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002012:Bruxism / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D008406:Masseter Muscle / Q000503:physiopathology; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D012890:Sleep; D012894:Sleep Stages; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000150:complications; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D014072:Tooth Abrasion / Q000209:etiology*