Abstract:

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess bruxism and temporomandibular disorder in mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Materials and Methods: 18 mothers of children with CP and 18 mothers of healthy children were included in study. The pressure pain threshold of the masticatory muscles and the upper trapezius were measured with a digital dynamometer. Maximum mouth opening was assessed with a digital caliper. Bruxism was evaluated by a non-instrumental method. Sleep quality, depression, neck disability, and temporomandibular disorder were evaluated with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Beck Depression Index, Neck Disability Index, and Fonseca Questionnaire. Results: Pain thresholds were lower (p<0.05), sleep disturbance, depression, neck disability, and temporomandibular disorder were higher in the mothers of children with CP (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our study showed that bruxism and temporomandibular disorder are highly observed in mothers of children with CP.

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