Masticatory function and oral stereognosis in bruxers

Objective: To compare the mastication and oral sensory function of individuals with and without sleep bruxism. Methods: The sample comprised 60 volunteers, of which 30 were bruxers (mean age = 30.5 ± 6.0) and 30 non-bruxers (mean age = 28.6 ± 3.3). Sleep bruxism was clinically diagnosed and confirmed using the Bruxoff® device. Mastication was evaluated according to swallowing threshold and masticatory efficiency. Swallowing threshold was determined from the median particle size of Optosil®, obtained after an individualized number of masticatory cycles, which was first determined by chewing peanuts; masticatory efficiency was estimated by the sieving method. Oral stereognosis test was used to determine the oral sensory function. Variables were compared using one-way ANOVA (p < .05). Results: The median particle size, masticatory efficiency, and oral sensory function did not differ significantly between bruxers and non-bruxers (p > .05). Conclusion: Dentate adults present similar mastication and oral sensory function, despite the presence of sleep bruxism.