Bruxless, a French startup based in Manosque, has developed a specialized helmet designed to stop bruxism by using Functional Proprioceptive Stimulation (FPS). This technology, typically used for Parkinson’s disease or post-stroke rehabilitation, targets the masseter muscles to trigger an unconscious relaxation reflex in the jaw.
What is bruxism and how common is it?
Bruxism is a condition characterized by involuntary teeth grinding or jaw clenching. According to the Union française pour la santé bucco-dentaire, this disorder affects approximately 10% to 15% of the French population.
While the condition itself is difficult to treat directly, its consequences can be severe. The Union française pour la santé bucco-dentaire notes that bruxism can lead to significant damage to both natural teeth and dental prostheses.
A portion of the population in France suffer from bruxism, often without realizing the extent of the damage being done to their dental health during sleep.
How does the Bruxless helmet stop teeth grinding?
The Bruxless device moves beyond passive protection by attempting to retrain the brain’s response to muscle tension. The helmet utilizes high-tech sensors to detect contractions in the masseter muscles.
Once a contraction is detected, the device activates Functional Proprioceptive Stimulation (FPS). These mechanical vibrations are calibrated to the specific intensity of the bruxism episode. According to the company, these vibrations target the tendino-muscular connection, creating a “decoy” for the brain. This decoy triggers an unconscious reflex that forces the jaw muscles to relax.
Anicet Mbida, reporting for TF1’s Bonjour ! La Matinale, explained that the device sends a message to the brain to encourage relaxation. The goal is to gradually eliminate the harmful reflex through several weeks or months of consistent use.
What are the current medical alternatives?
Until the introduction of neurological stimulation technology, treatments for bruxism have focused primarily on managing symptoms rather than the underlying reflex. The following methods are currently used by dental professionals:
- Orthèses (Mouthguards): The Union française pour la santé bucco-dentaire states that these devices protect the dental arches during the night and help relax the muscles and jaw joints.
- Botulinum Toxin: For patients experiencing intense pain, botulinum toxin can be used to relax the masseter muscles.
While mouthguards act as a physical barrier to prevent tooth wear, the Bruxless helmet represents a shift toward neurological intervention, aiming to break the habit rather than just shielding the teeth from it.
Comparison of Bruxism Management Approaches
| Method | Primary Function | Source/Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Mouthguards | Physical protection of teeth | Union française pour la santé bucco-dentaire |
| Botulinum Toxin | Muscle relaxation for pain | Medical intervention |
| FPS Helmet | Neurological reflex retraining | Bruxless technology |
Why do people suffer from bruxism?
The exact causes of bruxism remain difficult to identify fully. However, the Union française pour la santé bucco-dentaire distinguishes between two primary etiologies:
- Dental Occlusion Issues: When teeth do not fit together properly, it can create discomfort, leading the body to seek a more comfortable position through grinding.
- Stress and Concentration: Physical or emotional stress, as well as periods of intense concentration, can lead to continuous teeth clenching.
How much does the new technology cost?
The Bruxless helmet is positioned as a specialized device for those suffering from the most severe cases. Currently, the device is not reimbursed by Social Security. Users must pay a retail price of €699 to utilize the technology for their nightly sleep cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bruxless helmet a permanent cure?
The company suggests that the device can help a user stop the bruxism reflex after several weeks or months of use by retraining the brain.
What is FPS technology?
Functional Proprioceptive Stimulation (FPS) is a technology typically used in medical rehabilitation for patients recovering from strokes or living with Parkinson’s disease.
Does insurance cover the cost of the helmet?
No, at this time, the device is not covered by Social Security in France.
Have you experienced jaw pain or teeth grinding?
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