Bruxism – Alternative Treatment Methods

Overview

Bruxism is a parafunctional activity of the stomatognathic system characterized by involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, occurring both during sleep (sleep bruxism) and while awake (daytime bruxism). It is considered a sleep-related movement disorder and involves complex neurophysiological mechanisms.

The prevalence of bruxism is estimated at approximately 22% in the adult population, with higher rates among children.

Therapeutic management requires a multidisciplinary approach. In addition to the use of protective occlusal devices, complementary interventions such as acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and hypnotherapy can help reduce muscle tension and hyperactivity of the autonomic nervous system.

Essentially, stress and sleep management strategies, including relaxation techniques, optimization of sleep hygiene, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, play a central role in addressing underlying causes and reducing the frequency of bruxism episodes.

In conclusion, bruxism should be viewed as a clinical manifestation of a complex interaction between neurobiological and psychosocial factors, requiring an integrated therapeutic approach that addresses both symptoms and pathogenic mechanisms.