Impact of Self-Management Strategies in Self-Reported Bruxism

This study aim to evaluate the effects of a 6-week self-management program on pain, muscle stiffness, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) functions in sedentary individuals aged 18-40 with bruxism. Thirty-five individuals will be evaluated. Bruxism will be assessed using the Bruxism Assessment Questionnaire, while temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) will be evaluated using the Helkimo Clinical Dysfunction Index and the Fonseca Questionnaire. Masseter muscle pain threshold will be measured with a digital algometer, muscle stiffness with a Shore Durometer, mandibular depression range of motion with a bicondylar caliper, and TMJ proprioception with TMJ position sense. Assessments will be conducted pre-intervention and at the end of the fourth week.

The 4-week self-management program significantly increased the masseter pain threshold (p\<0.001) and reduced muscle stiffness at rest and during contraction (p\<0.001). TMJD severity, as measured by the Helkimo Index (p=0.010) and Fonseca Questionnaire (p\<0.001), was significantly reduced. Additionally, TMJ position sense and mandibular depression range of motion improved significantly (p\<0.001). Self-management strategies positively impact bruxism symptoms, including pain, muscle stiffness, and TMJ functions. These strategies should be considered an integral part of TMJD and bruxism management.