A new biofeedback approach for the control of masseter and temporal myalgia: Utilization of an awake posterior interocclusal device

Cranio. 2020 May;38(3):180-186. doi: 10.1080/08869634.2018.1503991. Epub 2018 Aug 11.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the improvement in reducing the pain of patients diagnosed with masticatory myofascial pain and bruxism when undergoing treatment with a partial posterior interocclusal device for the management and control of awake bruxism through biofeedback. Methods: Sixty patients were evaluated during the following periods: pretreatment, 7, 30, and 90 days. The evaluation was carried out by measuring the reduction in pain using clinical and numerical scales. Results: The majority of the patients who complained of masticatory myofascial pain, TMJ, and neck pain experienced a significant reduction in pain between t0 and t30 (p < 0.0001). After 30 days of using the device, the improvement remained at the same level, without any recurrence of pain up to t90. Conclusion: The utilization of a posterior interocclusal device for the management and control of awake bruxism through biofeedback contributed to the reduction of pain in the majority of patients.

Keywords: Awake bruxism; biofeedback; intra-oral device; orofacial pain; temporomandibular disorder.

MeSH terms

  • Biofeedback, Psychology
  • Bruxism*
  • Humans
  • Masseter Muscle
  • Myalgia*
  • Wakefulness