Comparison of Dry Needling and Two Botulinum Toxins for Bruxism

Evaluation of the Effects of Dry Needling and Botulinum Toxin Applications on VAS Scores and Muscle Thickness in the Masseter and Temporalis Muscles of Patients Diagnosed With Bruxism

1. Aim: The aim of this study is to prospectively compare the clinical efficacy of Dry Needling (DN), Nabota (PrabotulinumtoxinA), and Dysport (AbobotulinumtoxinA) treatments on the thickness of masseter and anterior temporal muscles and pain intensity (VAS) in patients diagnosed with chronic bruxism.
2. Material and Method: This randomized, prospective, and single-blind clinical study will be conducted on 60 patients diagnosed with bruxism. Patients will be divided into three groups: Dry Needling (n=20), Nabota (n=20), and Dysport (n=20). Pain levels will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at baseline, 1st month, and 3rd month. Muscle thicknesses will be measured using ultrasonography (USG) at baseline and 3rd month. Data distribution will be analyzed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test; intergroup comparisons will be performed using ANOVA and Post-hoc Duncan tests.
3. Results:The results will be analyzed following the completion of the 3-month follow-up period

Inclusion Criteria:

Patients aged 18-65 years diagnosed with "Probable Bruxism". ASA I or ASA II physical status. Patients with severe pain, defined as a score of 8 or higher on a 0-10 Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) (where 0 = no pain and 10 = worst possible pain).

Exclusion Criteria:

Allergy to botulinum toxin, silver, or gold. Pregnancy, neuromuscular diseases, or bleeding disorders. Previous TMJ surgery or current use of other treatments.