Abstract
Introduction Sleep Bruxism (SB) is a common condition in childhood that can cause multiple consequences
such as abnormal tooth wear, tensional headaches, masticatory muscle pain, or fatigue.
The literature reports some interventions, however the treatment for SB in children
is not well-established.
Objectives A systematic review was performed to investigate the effectiveness of the treatments
described for SB in children and adolescents: pharmacological and psychological treatments;
behavioral guidelines; and dental approaches.
Materials and methods Randomized clinical trials comparing different SB treatments with a control group
were searched in the electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane
Library, and VHL until August 04, 2021. Two independent reviewers selected the studies,
extracted the data, and assessed the risk of bias. After a two-phase selection process,
07 articles were selected. The methodology of the selected studies was analyzed using
the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. The criteria used to qualify the studies were based
on randomization, allocation, blinding of participants and evaluators, and analysis
of results.
Results The signs and symptoms of SB were reduced with pharmacotherapy (hydroxyzine/diazepam)
and medicinal extracts (M. Officinalis), but with occlusal splints and physiotherapy, this improvement was not statistically
significant when compared to control groups.
Conclusion Some evidence of the efficacy of pharmacotherapy (hydroxyzine/diazepam) and medicinal
extracts (M. Officinalis) was found. However, this systematic review is not enough to establish a protocol
for the treatment of SB. Besides, the individualized management of SB in this population
should be considered, emphasizing the management of risk factors.
Keywords
bruxism - sleep bruxism - treatment - systematic review
