Efficacy of botulinum toxin type A in bruxism: a scoping review

Abstract

This study aims to carry out a scoping review on the scientific production of the effectiveness of TxBA for bruxism. Eligibility criteria were defined as studies on the effectiveness of TxBA for bruxism, published in scientific publications until July 2023.This research revealed a variety of methodological approaches and data interpretation on the effectiveness of bruxism management using TxBA. Studies, including randomised clinical trials and case reports, have shown consistent results, highlighting the effectiveness of TxBA in reducing symptoms and signs of bruxism, although with variations in doses and assessment methods. Systematic reviews and overviews also confirmed the benefits, pointing to a reduction in the frequency of bruxism and muscle relaxation. However, the general assessment indicated divergences in the evidence, highlighting the need for research with better methodological rigour to establish definitive conclusions about the use of TxBA in the management of bruxism. Therefore, while the evidence points to the potential effectiveness of TxBA, uncertainty persists due to methodological variation and the lack of studies with methodological characteristics that converge with each other.