Summary
PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether there is any association between occlusal contact patterns during sleep bruxism and signs of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The association of occlusion pattern and symptoms of TMD was assessed in 240 Japanese participants. Participants completed a questionnaire to report pain and other symptoms regarding TMD and their self-awareness of sleep bruxism. A simple device (BruxChecker) custom fitted to each participant was applied to evaluate the occlusal contact pattern during sleep. Condylograph was also applied to examine the function of temporomandibular joint (TMJ). RESULTS: Participants with a major increment in the mediotrusive side occlusal contact areas on BruxChecker reported significant impact on the high prevalence of TMD signs and self-awareness of sleep bruxism. CONCLUSION: The positive relationship between a certain classification of occlusal grinding during sleep bruxism and signs of TMD constitutes a key point to consider the possible role of occlusal factors during sleeping as risk indicators in the genesis of TMD.