Unintended changes to the occlusion following the provision of night guards
Two articles on PainSci cite Bereznicki 2018: 1. Massage Therapy for Bruxism, Jaw Clenching, and TMJ Syndrome 2. The Complete Guide to Chronic Tension Headaches
original abstract †Abstracts here may not perfectly match originals, for a variety of technical and practical reasons. Some abstacts are truncated for my purposes here, if they are particularly long-winded and unhelpful. I occasionally add clarifying notes. And I make some minor corrections.
A review of the literature on night guards left questions unanswered about the risk and possible causes of occlusal derangement linked to night guard design and use. Cases are presented where night guard use resulted in anterior open bite and associated occlusal derangement. The aetiology of the occlusal changes observed is discussed. It is concluded that adverse occlusal effects linked to the use of night guards may be found to be more common than anticipated from existing literature. Patient follow-up is essential to monitor the use and effects of night guards, and regardless of appliance type, unintended occlusal changes may result. The use and effects of partial coverage appliances require very careful monitoring. Suggestions are provided for information and written instructions to be given to patients provided with night guards and removable orthodontic retainers.
related content
- “Epidemiology of bruxism in adults: a systematic review of the literature,” Manfredini et al, J Orofac Pain, 2013.
- “Unilateral or "side-locked" migrainous headache with autonomic symptoms linked to night guard use,” Strahlendorf et al, Headache, 2008.
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