Tongue force, oral health–related quality of life, and sleep index after bruxism management with intraoral devices

Abstract

Statement of problemOcclusal devices are the gold standard for managing the signs and symptoms of sleep bruxism (SB). Nevertheless, their influence on the tongue, quality of life, and sleep quality is not clear. PurposeThe purpose of this prospective clinical study was to evaluate the effects of an occlusal device on maximum tongue force, oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL), and subjective sleep quality in individuals with SB. The correlation between maximum tongue force and tongue size and that between tongue size and dental arch size ratio were also assessed. Material and methodsSB was diagnosed by clinical examination and by using the Bruxoff device. Fifteen bruxers received occlusal devices, and another 15 received palatal devices without occlusal coverage (control). Maximum tongue force was measured by using force sensors, while the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) was used to evaluate OHRQoL. Subjective sleep quality data were obtained by using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Tongue size was measured by ultrasonography, while the dental arch size was considered as the distance between the mandibular right and left first molars. After baseline measurement, participants used the devices at night, and the variables were reevaluated after 30 and 60 days. Comparisons between groups and among time points were performed with analysis of variance in a generalized linear mixed model and Tukey-Kramer test as post hoc. Correlations were analyzed by the Pearson test. ResultsMaximum tongue force decreased after wearing both devices for 30 days (P<.001). OHIP-14 and PSQI scores also reduced on day 30 (both P<.001). Maximum tongue force was not correlated with tongue size nor the ratio between tongue size and dental arch size. ConclusionIntraoral devices reduced maximum tongue force and improved OHRQoL and subjective sleep quality in bruxers.