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Bruxism and Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Advances and Future Challenges
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Bruxism and Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Advances and Future Challenges

A special issue of Journal of Clinical Medicine (ISSN 2077-0383). This special issue belongs to the section "Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2025 | Viewed by 4516

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Grzegorz Zieliński

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Sports Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
Interests: TMDs; TMJ; rehabilitation; craniofacial disorder; masticatory muscles; physiotherapy; electromyography
Prof. Dr. Eiji Tanaka

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
Interests: biomechanics of temporomandibular joint; temporomandibular disorders; tissue engineering; therapeutic ultrasound; clinical orthodontics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to invite you to contribute to our upcoming Special Issue on “Bruxism and Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Advances and Future Challenges”. Bruxism and temporomandibular disorders affect a significant portion of the population. The global prevalence of sleep bruxism is 21%, while awake bruxism affects 23% of individuals. For temporomandibular disorders, the prevalence reaches 34%. These conditions remain a compelling topic for both researchers and clinicians and are characterized by a multifactorial etiology. As such, a multidisciplinary approach is essential to facilitate a quicker diagnosis and appropriate patient treatment. This Special Issue aims to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding bruxism and temporomandibular disorders and outline future directions for diagnosis and therapy.

Dr. Grzegorz Zieliński
Prof. Dr. Eiji Tanaka
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Clinical Medicine is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • TMDs
  • TMJ
  • rehabilitation
  • physiotherapy
  • craniofacial disorder
  • oral health
  • biomechanics
  • masticatory muscles
  • electromyography
  • parafunction
  • nocturnal bruxism
  • tooth contact habit

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 1263 KiB  
Article
Clinical Manifestations of Temporomandibular Disorders and Their Relationship with Sleep Disturbances and Emotional Disorders in a Spanish Pediatric Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Fanny Esther Tapia-Sierra, Jesús Miguel Ticona-Flores, Guillermo Reichard-Monefeldt, Naomi Elvira-Tapia, Nuria Esther Gallardo-López and Montserrat Diéguez-Pérez
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(10), 3599; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14103599 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 50
Abstract
The etiology of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) has been linked to various factors, including functional and psychological factors, which makes it difficult to identify associations between a single etiological factor and the signs and symptoms of TMDs. Objectives: This study aimed to describe [...] Read more.
The etiology of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) has been linked to various factors, including functional and psychological factors, which makes it difficult to identify associations between a single etiological factor and the signs and symptoms of TMDs. Objectives: This study aimed to describe the presence of TMD symptoms and their relationship with sleep disturbances and emotional disorders in children and adolescents. Methods: This observational study included Spanish children aged between 8 and 13 years. The measurement instruments consisted of the BRUNI survey for sleep disorders and the Educational-Clinical Questionnaire: Anxiety and Depression (CECAD) survey. A clinical examination was subsequently performed following the DC/TMD guidelines for diagnosing TMDs. Frequencies, means, and standard deviations were applied, along with the prevalence ratio as a measure of association and the chi-square test. The significance level was set at 5%. Results: A total of 128 participants participated in the study with a mean age of 10.89 (±2.15) years. The prevalence of TMDs was 54%, while the most common symptoms were muscle pain at 26%, joint pain at 14%, and a combination of both at 14%. Children who presented muscle pain had a mean anxiety score of 44.87 (±11.85), whereas those without symptoms had a mean score of 36 (±10.78, and 0.03 p-value). The BRUNI index revealed that 78.13% of patients with TMDs had difficulty initiating and maintaining sleep, with a prevalence ratio (PR) of 3.57 (p-value 0.041). Conclusions: The present study reveals that temporomandibular disorders are common in children and adolescents, with 54% presenting at least one clinical sign or symptom. Emotional disturbances and sleep problems were also prevalent, affecting 41% and 56% of participants, respectively. Early interdisciplinary screening is essential to manage the co-occurrence of TMDs, emotional distress, and sleep problems in children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bruxism and Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Advances and Future Challenges)
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11 pages, 234 KiB  
Article
Comparative Evaluation of Temporomandibular Disorders and Dental Wear in Video Game Players
by Cezar Ionita, Alexandru Eugen Petre, Alexandra Velicu and Adriana Sarah Nica
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14010031 - 25 Dec 2024
Viewed by 757
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The increasing prevalence of video gaming has raised concerns about its potential impact on musculoskeletal health, particularly temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). This study aims to compare TMD symptoms, mandibular function, and dental wear between gamers and non-gamers among university students. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The increasing prevalence of video gaming has raised concerns about its potential impact on musculoskeletal health, particularly temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). This study aims to compare TMD symptoms, mandibular function, and dental wear between gamers and non-gamers among university students. Methods: An observational study included 108 students aged 20 to 23 years, divided into gamers (n = 48) and non-gamers (n = 60). Participants completed questionnaires assessing TMD symptoms, gaming habits, and screen time. Clinical examinations measured mandibular movements, palpation-induced pain, and dental wear using the Smith and Knight Tooth Wear Index. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, chi-square tests, Pearson’s correlations, and logistic regression. Seven comprehensive tables present the findings with p-values. Results: Gamers reported significantly higher screen time (Mean = 6.5 h/day) compared to non-gamers (Mean = 4.0 h/day; p < 0.001). Maximum unassisted mouth opening was greater in gamers (Mean = 48.31 mm) than in non-gamers (Mean = 46.33 mm; p = 0.04). Gamers exhibited a higher prevalence of pain on palpation of the masseter muscle (45.8% vs. 30.0%; p = 0.05). Dental wear scores were significantly higher in gamers for teeth 2.3 (upper left canine) and 3.3 (lower left canine) (p < 0.05). Positive correlations were found between hours spent gaming and maximum mouth opening (r = 0.25; p = 0.01) and dental wear (r = 0.30; p = 0.002). Logistic regression showed that gaming status significantly predicted the presence of TMD symptoms (Odds Ratio = 2.5; p = 0.03). Conclusions: Gamers exhibit greater mandibular opening, increased dental wear, and a higher prevalence of masticatory muscle pain compared to non-gamers. Prolonged gaming may contribute to altered mandibular function and increased risk of TMD symptoms. Further research is needed to explore underlying mechanisms and develop preventive strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bruxism and Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Advances and Future Challenges)
11 pages, 559 KiB  
Article
Electromyographic Diagnostic Ranges Defining Temporomandibular Disorders and Healthy Individuals’ Results in Functional Clenching Index
by Grzegorz Zieliński and Michał Ginszt
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14010014 - 24 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 647
Abstract
Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) represent a significant public health issue, among which masticatory muscle pain is the most common. Current publications increasingly indicate surface electromyography (sEMG) as an effective diagnostic tool for muscle dysfunctions that may be employed in TMDs recognition. The [...] Read more.
Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) represent a significant public health issue, among which masticatory muscle pain is the most common. Current publications increasingly indicate surface electromyography (sEMG) as an effective diagnostic tool for muscle dysfunctions that may be employed in TMDs recognition. The objective of this study was to establish reference ranges for TMDs patients with masticatory muscle pain and healthy individuals in the electromyographic Functional Clenching Index (FCI) for the temporalis muscles (TAs) and masseter muscles (MMs). This research aimed to provide an additional diagnostic tool for TMDs patients. Methods: A total of 48 individuals (n = 30 women and n = 18 men) with the muscular painful form of TMDs were recruited alongside a numerically and gender-matched control group—healthy, pain-free controls. The Functional Clenching Indexwas calculated for both groups. Results: Data analysis revealed statistically significant differences with a very large effect size. Healthy individuals had higher FCI scores compared to those with TMDs. The healthy group exhibited higher threshold values compared to the TMDs group. Conclusions: For healthy individuals, the FCI ranges for TAs were between 58 and 145, while for MMs, between 72 and 210. Lower values may indicate muscle activation disorders and occur in patients with the painful, muscular form of TMDs. This is the first study to define reference ranges for electromyographic indices; therefore, caution is recommended, and the replication of this study on a larger and more culturally diverse sample is advised. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bruxism and Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Advances and Future Challenges)
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Review

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17 pages, 1199 KiB  
Review
The Importance of Genetic Background and Neurotransmission in the Pathogenesis of the Co-Occurrence of Sleep Bruxism and Sleep-Disordered Breathing—Review of a New Perspective
by Joanna Smardz, Andrej Jenca, Jr. and Sylwia Orzeszek
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(23), 7091; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13237091 - 23 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1336
Abstract
Sleep bruxism (SB) and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) are two prevalent conditions that significantly impact overall health. Studies suggest that up to 49.7% of individuals with SDB also exhibit symptoms of SB. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the role of [...] Read more.
Sleep bruxism (SB) and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) are two prevalent conditions that significantly impact overall health. Studies suggest that up to 49.7% of individuals with SDB also exhibit symptoms of SB. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the role of genetic background and neurotransmission in the pathogenesis of the co-occurrence of SB and SDB. It seeks to synthesize current knowledge, highlight gaps in the existing literature, and propose a new perspective that integrates genetic and neurobiological factors. This review shows that both SB and SDB may be influenced by a combination of genetic, neurochemical, and environmental factors that contribute to their shared pathophysiology. The key neurotransmitters—dopamine, serotonin, and GABA—may play a significant role in their co-occurrence by regulating motor activity, sleep architecture, and respiratory control. Understanding genetic and neurochemical mechanisms may allow for more precise diagnostic tools and more personalized treatment approaches regarding SB and SDB. Clinically, there is a need for interdisciplinary collaboration between sleep specialists, dentists, neurologists, and geneticists. There is also a need to conduct large-scale genetic studies, coupled with neuroimaging and neurophysiological research, uncovering additional insights into the shared mechanisms of SB and SDB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bruxism and Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Advances and Future Challenges)
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Other

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12 pages, 1995 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Co-Occurrence of Temporomandibular Disorders in Patients Diagnosed with Tinnitus: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
by Michał Bury, Kacper Nijakowski, Anna Majewska, Jakub Jankowski, Anna Surdacka and Dorota Hojan-Jezierska
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(6), 1836; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14061836 - 8 Mar 2025
Viewed by 916
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Persistent and distressing tinnitus and TMDs may significantly impair the quality of patients’ lives. Problems are particularly severe for those who experience both. Although the exact causes of this association are not fully understood, several hypotheses connect TMD conditions with otological symptoms. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Persistent and distressing tinnitus and TMDs may significantly impair the quality of patients’ lives. Problems are particularly severe for those who experience both. Although the exact causes of this association are not fully understood, several hypotheses connect TMD conditions with otological symptoms. Methods: The systematic review presented involved records published between 1 January 2004 and 27 November 2024, in the databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, according to the PRISMA guidelines. The search queries included “temporomandibular disorder” and “tinnitus”. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were predefined according to PECOS. A risk of bias assessment and meta-analyses were performed. The study’s protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024533293). Results: Eleven studies included in this review fulfilled all the predefined criteria. In a sample of 114,071 tinnitus patients, 50.99% (95% CI: 33.31–68.54) also had coexisting TMDs. Furthermore, tinnitus patients had more than 2.2 times higher odds of having TMDs compared to the control group (p = 0.002 for random effects). The absence of data regarding randomisation, blinding, and sample size justification was the most frequent risk of bias. Conclusions: Tinnitus frequently co-occurs in patients who suffer from TMDs. It is essential to expand the diagnostic evaluation of patients to confirm its presence and assess its impact on their quality of life. Additionally, dental consultation should be considered to evaluate patients about TMD signs and symptoms when suffering from tinnitus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bruxism and Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Advances and Future Challenges)
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