The Lion's Pride Volume 10 (Spring 2018) | Page 64

of the dentition including orthodontic measures as well as rehabilitation
of teeth through dental restorations: fillings, crowns, bridges, or
implants. Other therapies are implementing oral appliances such as
nightguards or occlusal splints that are “by far, the treatment regime
which has withstood the test of time” (Swaminathan et al., 2014, p. 133).
These consist of a hard or soft acrylic-resin based appliance that fits over
the maxillary or mandibular teeth, providing a gliding surface between
the two arches. Although these have provided patients with comfort and
protection of the teeth from bruxism, Swaminathan et al. (2014)
observed that the inconsistent studies prevent definitive evidence
showing beneficial results (p.133). Because stress has been shown to
increase muscular tension, behavior techniques are being implemented
in some cases of bruxism (Kim & Han, 2015, p. 97). Swaminathan et al.
(2014) noted that becoming aware of the nightly grinding could
potentially reverse the negative habit; however, research is lacking (p.
133). Vastly studied pharmaceutical regimens have been studied such as
muscle relaxers and Botox injections into the masseter muscles
(Swaminathan et al., 2014, p. 134). Botulinum type A toxin is a form of
Botox that is injected into each masseter muscle with the guidance of
ultrasound (Quezada-Gaon, Wortsman, Peñaloza, & Carrasco, 2016, p.
239). Quexada-Gaon et al. (2016) showed promising results in the
advancement of research, yet more studies are needed (p. 243).