Impact of Mandibular Advancement Device or Maxillary Occlusal Splint on Bite Force in Sleep Bruxism Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Aims: Sleep Bruxism (SB) is a condition that is usually present with increased bite force (BF) resulting in tooth wear, orofacial pain and fractured restoration. So, this study aimed to compare the BF in patients with SB before and after using a mandibular advancement device (MAD) and maxillary occlusal splint (MOS).

Methods: In this randomized controlled trial (RCT), 28 subjects were randomly intervened either MAD or MOS. Subjects BF was assessed with a digital Gnathodynamometer in the first molar region. This variable was evaluated at baseline, 1 month and 3 months follow-up

Results: Out of 32 participants, 28 participants were statistically analyzed as four subjects did not respond at the follow up period. Both MOS and MAD significantly reduced BF (p<0.001) after 3 months from baseline. However the average BF was similar at baseline, 1 and 3 months between the groups.  Conclusion: The results suggest that both Mandibular advancement device and maxillary occlusal splint reduce bite forces in sleep bruxism.