Bruxism treatment outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: This review aimed at addressing the treatment outcomes of bruxism.

Methods: The systematic review protocol was registered in International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews with protocol number (CRD42024597809). It was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The search was performed to retrieve the relevant articles from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The inclusion criteria were predefined as original studies including randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, case series, studies published between October 2019, and October 2024 published in English. The retrieved studies suitable for analysis were subjected for data extraction and risk of bias assessment using the Joanna Brigg Institute checklists for the relevant design of the studies.

Results: Finally, 22 studies were suitable for the data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Studies revealed that occlusal splints, both conventional and 3-dimensional-printed, have been widely studied for their ability to reduce nighttime muscle activity. These devices help distribute occlusal forces and alleviate symptoms, although their effectiveness varies depending on design and material. Botulinum toxin type A has been examined as a treatment option, particularly for reducing pain and muscle activity in patients with bruxism. Biofeedback devices have also been explored as a noninvasive alternative to control bruxism.

Conclusion: Overall, there is no single treatment that is universally effective for all patients. A multidisciplinary approach combining different therapies may yield the best results. Further long-term studies with rigorous methodological control are essential to evaluate the durability of therapeutic effects and determine the most cost-effective interventions.