Dental practitioner approaches to bruxism: Preliminary findings from the national dental practice-based research network

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective Bruxism is a repetitive masticatory muscle activity. This study investigates dental practitioners’ approaches to bruxism assessment and treatment in practices. Methods A brief 5 question questionnaire (“Quick Poll”) on bruxism was conducted. Results A total of 397 practitioners responded. More than half (55%) initiated treatment for bruxism on one to three patients per month. The majority believed that stress (97%) and sleep patterns (82%) affected bruxism in their patients. Interestingly, 96% offered an occlusal guard/appliance and 46% made occlusal adjustments. Conclusion This study highlights inconsistencies in practitioner approaches to bruxism assessment and management in clinical settings, suggesting gaps in practitioner knowledge evidenced by the varied responses. Abbreviations PBRN - Practice-Based Research Network MMA - Masticatory muscle activity SB - Sleep bruxism AB - Awake bruxism TMJ - Temporomandibular joint OSA - Obstructive sleep apnea