Psychological stress in orofacial neuromuscular problems

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychology
• Dentistry

Background:

• Orofacial neuromuscular problems are often treated assuming psychological stress-induced muscle hyperactivity is a primary cause.
• Previous research indicated a correlation between nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding) and reported stress levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence linking psychological stress to orofacial neuromuscular problems.
• To investigate prolonged muscular activity patterns using electromyography (EMG).

Main Methods:

• A review of existing literature on the aetiology of orofacial neuromuscular problems.
• A study utilizing a portable electromyographic (EMG) recording apparatus to monitor muscular activity over extended periods.

Main Results:

• Earlier studies found correlations between nocturnal masseter muscle activity and stress reports.
• Recent 24-hour monitoring suggests muscle hyperactivity links to daily activities but shows significant patient variability.
• The causal relationship between reported anxiety and orofacial muscular pain remains undetermined.

Conclusions:

• The hypothesis that psychological stress is the sole cause of orofacial neuromuscular problems needs further examination.
• Individual patient variability in muscle activity patterns is significant.
• Additional parameters beyond stress and anxiety require evaluation to understand orofacial muscular pain aetiology.