Interocclusal Device Instrumented by Fiber Bragg Gratings: Case Study of Bruxism Treatment with Botulinum Toxin

The lasting effect of applying botulinum toxin type A in a patient with bruxism is analyzed using an interocclusal device instrumented by fiber Bragg grating sensors. The case study involves analyses of maximum bite forces and hyperactivity during sleep for a volunteer patient. In controlled, in vivo , assays, the bite force exerted by the patient is monitored when using the interocclusal device. A maximum bite force of ~38 N was obtained before the application of botulinum toxin. One month after the application, the force had reduced to ~20 N (i.e., by ~57%). By contrast, approximately two months after the application, the force had recovered to 90% of the initial value. In hyperactivity assays, the patient slept with the interocclusal device in position, with the biting activity monitored, before and after the application of botulinum toxin. Prior to the application of botulinum toxin, the mean force was ~28 N, which reduced by 25% after the application. In addition, the time interval between hyperactivity events almost doubled after the botulinum toxin application.