[Treatment of bruxism: physiotherapeutic approach]

Epidemiological and experimental studies suggest that there is a relationship between bruxism and pain in the orofacial region, and between bruxism and restricted mandibular movements. However, the exact nature of this relationship remains unclear. Therefore, up till now, the following working hypothesis is used: bruxism can lead to (chronic) pain complaints and restricted mandibular movements, when its intensity exceeds the adaptation capacity of the musculoskeletal structures. In that case, the aims of physical therapy treatment are twofold: to decrease symptoms, such as pain ('symptom therapy'), and to teach the patient to recognise and reduce the bruxism ('behavioral therapy'). Techniques used for symptom treatment are massage and stretching exercises. For the behavioral therapy exercises and myofeedback are often used.