Multimorbidities associated with bruxism: a population-based study. Campinas- Brazil

Abstract

Abstract Background Bruxism is a relevant topic in public health, as it represents an increasingly frequent parafunctional activity and also for presenting musculoskeletal and dental effects affecting the health and well-being of the affected population. The reviewed literature shows that bruxism is associated with some health problems, but with multimorbidities has not yet been investigated. Objective To identify the association of bruxism with a multimorbidity pattern. Methods A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample composed of 1986 adults (≥20 years of age). This study used data from the Third Health Survey of the City of Campinas conducted in 2014 and 2015 (ISACamp 2014/15). A principal component analysis was performed to identify in which multimorbidity pattern, present in the population, bruxism is included. From this pattern, the variable number of diseases was created (0; 1; 2 to 4; 5 or more). The prevalence of bruxism was established according to this variable and associations were tested using the Rao-Scott chi-square test and Poisson regression. Results The factor analysis revealed three relevant patterns of multimorbidity in the population of Campinas. Bruxism was part of the pattern also composed of: asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis, allergy, migraine/headache, emotional/mental problem, dizziness/vertigo and back pain. The prevalence of bruxism increased more than fivefold in the concomitant presence of five or more of these conditions (PR = 5.35;95%CI:3.35 to 8.45). Conclusions Knowledge about the association of bruxism with a pattern of multimorbidities can show the direction of health actions in multidisciplinary teamwork, prioritizing the reduction in harm caused by the simultaneous presence of health problems associated with bruxism. We also emphasize the possible role of bruxism as an indicator of multimorbidities, especially those associated with the pattern found. Key messages Bruxism was more associated with multimorbidities of the pattern composed of asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis, dizziness/vertigo, migraine/headache, emotional/mental problem, back pain and allergy. The concomitant presence these conditions increased the prevalence of bruxism up to fivefold.