Testing a Mobile App Intervention and Education to Reduce Jaw Muscle Activity in Adults at Risk for Temporomandibular Disorders

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of ecological momentary assessment EMA interventions combined with structured information to reduce masticatory muscle activity in individuals at risk for temporomandibular disorders TMD. TMD, a common cause of orofacial pain affecting the muscles of mastication and jaw joints, often leads to chronic pain and disability. This randomized clinical trial aims to determine if EMA interventions, delivered via mobile devices, can effectively decrease harmful oral behaviors such as tooth clenching and awake bruxism, compared to structured information alone. The study compares two groups one receiving an educational video about oral behaviors and jaw muscle management, and another receiving the same video plus a 1-week EMA intervention involving multiple daily prompts on mobile phones to report real-time oral behaviors. The EMA approach intends to raise awareness and support behavior change by encouraging participants to reflect on their habits throughout the day. The trial is randomized and single-blinded, assessing short- and long-term effects on muscle activity. Participants will be monitored for changes in the frequency and duration of oral behaviors using portable electromyography and self-report questionnaires. Assessments focus on behavior frequency after the 1-week intervention and follow-up at one month. The study involves baseline education, daily EMA prompts for one week in the experimental group, and outcome measurements to evaluate effectiveness. The total study duration and follow-up periods are designed to observe both immediate and lasting impacts on masticatory muscle activity and related symptoms.

Behavioral Interventions for Controlling Oral Behaviors