Comparison of the Effects of Different Massage Techniques in Individuals With Bruxism

Comparison of the Effects of Different Massage Techniques on Pain, Orofacial Muscle Characteristics, Disability, and Sleep Quality in Individuals With Bruxism

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of occlusal splint therapy and different massage techniques on pain intensity and orofacial muscle tone and stiffness in individuals with possible sleep bruxism. A secondary aim is to evaluate the effects of these interventions on oral parafunctional behaviors, disability, and sleep quality.

Individuals meeting the inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned to three groups using block randomization: classic massage group (CM), connective tissue massage group (CTM), and occlusal splint group (OCG). Following their assessments, individuals will be assigned to their respective groups. The CM and CTM groups will receive different massage techniques twice a week from a physiotherapist for four weeks, while the OCG group will be instructed to use a custom-made occlusal splint provided by a dentist for four weeks. Assessments will be repeated for all individuals at the 4th and 8th weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Possible diagnosis of sleep bruxism,
• Reporting jaw or chewing muscle pain within the last 3 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having any orthopedic, neurological, or psychiatric diagnosis,
• Having systemic and/or degenerative disorders,
• Neurological or psychiatric disorders (excluding anxiety and depression),
• Using medications that affect sleep or motor behavior,
• Having arthrogenic or mixed temporomandibular disorders,
• Using an intraoral prosthesis,
• Having a history of direct trauma or previous surgery in the orofacial region,
• Using muscle relaxants and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,
• Using a removable prosthesis,
• Receiving any treatment for bruxism within the last 4 weeks.