Bridging semantics and medical ontology in the definition of bruxism: An argument for a holistic definition

• Published in: Journal of oral rehabilitation Vol. 51; no. 7; pp. 1109 - 1112
• Main Author: Skarmeta, Nicolás P.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.07.2024
• Subjects: awake bruxism; Biological Ontologies; Bruxism; Catalysts; definition; Dental disorders; Holistic Health; Humans; ontology; Semantics; sleep bruxism; Terminology as Topic; awake bruxism; definition; sleep bruxism; bruxism; ontology
• ISSN: 0305-182X; 1365-2842
• DOI: 10.1111/joor.13680

Objective The objective of this commentary is to advocate for a holistic, ontology‐based definition of bruxism. The intention is to synthesise the best aspects of current definitions into a structured ontological model, thereby refining and enhancing a comprehensive understanding of the full spectrum of bruxism. Materials and Methods The commentary elaborates on the process of integrating these insights into a hierarchical ontology that aligns with ontological principles. Settings and Sample Population Not directly applicable as this is a commentary. Results/Conclusion The proposed ontology‐based definition of bruxism aims to clarify communication within the medical community and advance research by enabling a comprehensive ontology‐based classification of bruxism. By aligning with ontological principles, this approach aspires to act as a catalyst for further research, discussion and consensus in the field. This commentary proposes a new holistic definition, providing a clear semantic framework for a hierarchical ontology‐based classification.