Self-Reported Bruxism, Masticatory Muscle Pain, Psychologic Profile, and Bowel Symptoms: A Retrospective Study.

This study investigates the associations between self-reported awake bruxism, masticatory muscle pain, bowel symptoms, and psychological profiles measured by the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R). Data from 246 patients attending an Orofacial Pain Clinic were analyzed using validated questionnaires: the Bowel Symptom Questionnaire (BSQ) based on Rome II criteria, the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD), and the SCL-90-R. Results showed significant associations between self-reported bruxism and both muscle pain and bowel symptoms, with bowel problems and muscle pain identified as independent predictors of bruxism, while somatization was the sole independent predictor of bowel symptoms. The findings suggest a potential link involving autonomic nervous system activity and psychological factors, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary clinical awareness and management of patients presenting with these overlapping conditions.