Archive | 2019
Device for Evaluating the Bite Force of Night Bruxism
Abstract
Bruxism is a movement disorder that occurs during sleep, characterized by the involuntary movement of tightening and moving the mandible in different directions, producing muscular pain and tooth wear. In addition, bruxism can lead to changes in sleep and headaches. The aim of this study was the development of a device to evaluate the bite force of bruxism in a domestic environment. The methodology was the creation of an intraoral device, added to the inclusion of resistive sensors, which measure mechanical deformation. An electronic circuit has been developed capable of capturing the frequency of these deformations that are captured during sleep. This information is stored and generates data capable of correlating with sleep periods, evaluating the amount and frequency of dental occlusions. The results are in accordance with the literature, demonstrating that the period of greatest “clenching” of the teeth is precisely in stages 1, 2 and 3 of NREM sleep.