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Suggestive hypnotherapy for nocturnal bruxism: a pilot study
1Division of Behavioral Sciences, Oregon Health Sciences University, School of Dentistry, Portland 97201-3097.
The American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
|April 1, 1991
Summary
This study shows that suggestive hypnotherapy significantly reduced bruxism symptoms, including muscle pain and noise. Long-term follow-up confirmed these positive effects on sleep bruxism management.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Bruxism, characterized by teeth grinding, lacks extensive scientific research despite numerous case reports on hypnotherapy.
- Symptoms include muscle pain and audible bruxing noise, impacting patients and partners.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of suggestive hypnotherapy in treating bruxism.
- To objectively measure the impact of hypnotherapy on bruxism activity.
Main Methods:
- Eight subjects with bruxism participated.
- Baseline electromyogram (EMG) recordings of masseter muscle activity during sleep were obtained.
- Subjects underwent suggestive hypnotherapy.
- Post-treatment evaluations included self-reports and EMG recordings; long-term effects were assessed via self-reports.
Main Results:
- Significant decrease in masseter muscle EMG activity observed.
- Subjects reported reduced facial pain.
- Sleep partners noted a decrease in bruxing noise.
- Positive outcomes were sustained for 4 to 36 months post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Suggestive hypnotherapy is an effective treatment for bruxism.
- Hypnotherapy offers a viable, non-invasive approach to managing bruxism symptoms.
- The study highlights the potential of hypnotherapy for long-term bruxism relief.