Self-Reported Bruxism, Masticatory Muscle Pain, Psychologic Profile, and Bowel Symptoms: A Retrospective Study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Psychosomatic Medicine
• Dental Sleep Medicine

Background:

• Bruxism, characterized by teeth grinding, and masticatory muscle pain are common. Bowel symptoms affect a significant portion of the population.
• The relationship between bruxism, muscle pain, and gastrointestinal distress is not fully understood.
• Psychological factors, such as somatization, may play a role in these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the associations between self-reported bruxism, masticatory muscle pain, and bowel symptoms.
• To explore the relationship of these conditions with the 9 dimensions of the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R).

Main Methods:

• Data were collected using validated questionnaires: Bowel Symptom Questionnaire (BSQ), Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD), and SCL-90-R.
• Statistical analyses included chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression to identify predictors.
• Patients' bowel status was classified using Rome II criteria.

Main Results:

• A significant association was found between self-reported bruxism and bowel symptoms (p=0.020).
• 53% of patients reported bowel problems, and 48% had both bruxism and bowel issues.
• Muscle pain and bowel symptoms independently predicted bruxism, while somatization predicted bowel symptoms.

Conclusions:

• The study establishes a potential link between self-reported bruxism and bowel symptoms.
• Findings highlight the need for patient education and clinical guidelines for interdisciplinary care.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this association.