Feasibility of a Clinical Trial on Physiotherapy and Mouthguards for Bruxism Using Posture and EMG Analysis

The purpose of this research is to determine whether a clinical trial assessing the impact of physiotherapy and mouthguards on bruxism is feasible. This includes evaluating the feasibility of participant recruitment, implementing the interventions, and collecting data using appropriate techniques. The study will focus on posture angle analysis to assess changes in posture associated with bruxism, and electromyography (EMG) to measure muscular activity. By examining these elements, the study aims to lay the groundwork for a larger clinical trial that could provide conclusive evidence regarding the efficacy of these therapies in treating bruxism. Participants will be recruited from the USJ dental clinics following their consultation. They will be screened for bruxism using a questionnaire and a clinical examination based on the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD). The mouthguard-only group will receive a custom-fitted mouthguard, fabricated by a qualified dentist. Participants will be instructed to wear the mouthguard during sleep for six weeks, to clean it daily, and to store it in a cool, dry place. The mouthguard and physiotherapy group will receive both a custom-fitted mouthguard and physiotherapy. The home physiotherapy program will include posture improvement exercises, relaxation techniques, and muscle therapy targeting the head, neck, and shoulders. Participants will perform the exercises daily at home, record themselves, and submit the videos each day via a social platform (e.g., Microsoft Teams or WhatsApp, depending on patient preference) for a period of six weeks.