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The effectiveness of occlusal splints for sleep bruxism
1Division of Restorative Dentistry, Department of Oral and Dental Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
Evidence-Based Dentistry
|March 28, 2008
Summary
Evidence is insufficient to confirm occlusal splints effectively treat sleep bruxism for sleep outcomes. However, they may offer some benefit for tooth wear, warranting further research.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Dental Sleep Medicine
- Evidence-Based Dentistry
Background:
- This systematic review evaluated the efficacy of occlusal splint therapy for sleep bruxism.
- Searches included major databases and hand searches, with no language restrictions.
- Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met the inclusion criteria.
Discussion:
- Occlusal splints were compared against palatal splints, mandibular advancement devices, transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation, and no treatment.
- A meta-analysis of the arousal index showed no statistically significant difference between occlusal splints and control groups.
- The evidence for occlusal splints in improving sleep outcomes in sleep bruxism is currently inadequate.
Key Insights:
- Occlusal splint therapy's effectiveness for sleep bruxism remains unproven regarding sleep-related outcomes.
- A potential benefit of occlusal splints may exist for mitigating tooth wear associated with sleep bruxism.
- Current evidence suggests the use of occlusal splints for sleep bruxism is questionable for sleep outcomes.
Outlook:
- Further high-quality, parallel-group RCTs are needed to clarify the role of occlusal splints.
- Future research should focus on robust methodology, including allocation concealment, outcome assessment, large sample sizes, and adequate follow-up.
- Standardization of outcome measures in sleep bruxism treatment trials is essential.
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