Higher Levels of Dispositional Mindfulness Are Associated With More Effective Ecological Momentary Intervention Outcomes in Reducing the Frequency of Awake Bruxism Behaviours

Abstract

Background

Previous research has highlighted the multifactorial nature of awake bruxism (AB), including its associations with stress, anxiety and other psychological factors. Dispositional mindfulness, known for its benefits in enhancing emotional regulation and reducing stress, has not yet been thoroughly investigated in association with AB.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate whether levels of dispositional mindfulness predict the efficacy of ecological momentary intervention (EMI) in reducing the frequency of AB behaviours.

Methods

This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a correlational component and involved 83 undergraduate dental students categorised into high and low mindfulness groups based on the Mindfulness Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS). An EMI was implemented using the No Clenching mobile app, which sent 12 alerts per day over 1 month. The primary outcome measure was a 50% reduction in the frequency of AB behaviours.

Results

A significant positive relationship was found between dispositional mindfulness levels and the reduction in AB behaviours. Participants with higher mindfulness levels experienced a greater reduction in AB frequency compared to those with lower mindfulness levels. Mixed-effects regression analysis revealed that mindfulness levels were a significant predictor of bruxism reduction (β = 0.45, p < 0.01). The coefficient for MAAS was positive and significant (coefficient = 1.5305, p < 0.001), indicating that higher mindfulness levels are associated with greater reductions in AB frequency. Additionally, a significantly higher percentage of participants in the high mindfulness group (97.5%) achieved a 50% reduction in AB behaviours compared to the low mindfulness group (62%).

Conclusion

Higher levels of dispositional mindfulness are associated with more effective EMI outcomes in reducing AB behaviours. Incorporating mindfulness-based approaches into intervention strategies for AB could lead to more personalised and effective treatments.