Clinical management of childhood sleeps bruxism

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep bruxism (SB) affects between 3.5% and 46% of children from 0 to 12 years of age and can cause damage to the stomatognathic system and the various structures that are part of it. Objective: This paper aims to report a clinical case of childhood SB regarding the origin, signs, symptoms, the conduction and clinical management of it, minimizing the possible consequences on the child's oral health-related quality of life. Description: A 6-year-old female patient (L.T.B.) presented to the Pediatric Dentistry Clinic of the Aeronautic Hospital of Canoas (HACO) with a complaint of headache and clenching. The diagnosis of SB was obtained through parental report, and it was believed to be caused by respiratory problems triggered by weather changes. Therefore, no muscle or joint anomalies were identified. Multidisciplinary treatment was carried out with the otorhinolaryngologist, as well as the application of a rigid acrylic occlusal spint by the pediatric dentist. Conclusion: In this case report, an occlusal splint was a favorable therapy for the resolution of dental wear caused by SB in the deciduous dentition. It was also reported by the parents and improvement on the child's sleep routine, providing a better oral health-related quality of life to the patient.