Effect of Altered Sleep Duration on Sleep Bruxism
Yuichiro Yamakawa1, Takashi Iida1, Yoshihiro Iwata1
1Department of Prosthodontics and Oral Rehabilitation, Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo, Chiba, JPN.
Cureus
|November 25, 2025
Summary
Sleep deprivation impacts sleep bruxism (SB) events. Improving sleep quality can reduce SB frequency by lowering stress levels, as shown in this study on sleep bruxism and sleep quality.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Neurology
- Dental Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Inconsistent findings link sleep bruxism (SB) and sleep quality.
- Investigating the impact of sleep deprivation (SD) on masticatory muscle activity is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the effect of sleep deprivation (SD) on sleep bruxism (SB) events.
- To assess the relationship between sleep quality, stress, and SB.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-eight healthy participants underwent a five-day protocol with baseline sleep, sleep deprivation, and recovery sleep.
- Masticatory muscle activity (SB events) and sleep parameters were recorded using portable electromyography and a Sleep Profiler.
- Subjective sleepiness, stress, and well-being were assessed using validated questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Sleep bruxism event frequency was significantly lower during recovery sleep compared to baseline sleep.
- Recovery sleep showed increased total sleep time, sleep efficiency, and N3 sleep, with decreased N2 sleep.
- Sleep deprivation led to significant increases in sleepiness and stress, and a decrease in well-being.
Conclusions:
- Sleep deprivation significantly affects sleep bruxism event frequency.
- Enhanced sleep quality, achieved by reducing stress, can decrease sleep bruxism events.
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