Bruxism, Temporomandibular disorders, and parafunctional activity in children and adolescents

Within time limitation, in this lecture an effort will be made to give the state of the art on bruxism, temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and oral parafunctional activity that affect children and adolescents.

Amongst other, the following will be discuss:

– The most common TMD that affect children and adolescents.

– The prevalence, possible etiology, and diagnosis of bruxism in children and adolescents.

– The possible association between bruxism and TMD in children.

– The proposed intervention options to reduce bruxism and TMD pain:

– Pharmacological

– Psychological

– Physical therapy

– Occlusal splints/appliances

– Orthodontic.

Each treatment modality will be discussed based on available evidence data and my clinical personal experience.

– The most common oral parafunctional activity performed by children and adolescents. The central etiology for the performing of such parafunctions will be describe.

Its possible detrimental effect, and its association to TMD will also be discussed.

– Several sleep behaviors that may serve as risk factors to bruxism in children.