Polysomnographic characteristics of sleep-related bruxism: What are the determinant factors for temporomandibular disorders?

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and polysomnographic characteristics of sleep bruxism (SB) and delineate the determinant factors for temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

METHODS

Forty-six patients were allocated into the SB group (n = 26) and control group (n = 20). The signs and symptoms of TMD were recorded using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD. Patients underwent a full-night polysomnographic recording and masseter and temporal muscle electromyographic recordings. Clinical and polysomnographic data in patients with SB were analyzed in relation to TMD.

RESULTS

The presence of TMJ sounds was significantly correlated with the number of bruxism bursts. Intra-articular pain in the TMJ was neither correlated with clinical nor polysomnographic parameters in patients with SB.

CONCLUSION

Lower sleep efficiency in patients with SB was caused by a higher number of bruxism episodes. Morning headaches were associated with the severity of SB during rapid eye movement sleep.