Prevalence and predictive factors of sleep bruxism in children with and without cognitive impairment

Cristina Batista Miamoto,Leandro Silva Marques,Maria Letícia Ramos-Jorge,Luciano José Pereira

doi:10.1590/s1806-83242011000500011

Abstract

Studies have found a higher prevalence of sleep bruxism (SB) in individuals with cognitive impairment. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence and factors associated with the clinical manifestation of SB in children with and without cognitive impairment. The sample was made up of 180 individuals: Group 1 - without cognitive impairment; Group 2 - with Down syndrome; Group 3 - with cerebral palsy. Malocclusions were assessed based on the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI); lip competence was assessed based on Ballard's description. The bio-psychosocial characteristics were assessed via a questionnaire and clinical exam. Statistical analysis involved the chi-square test (p < 0.05) and multivariate logistic regression. The prevalence of bruxism was 23%. There were no significant differences between the groups (p = 0.970). Individuals with sucking habits (OR [95% CI] = 4.44 [1.5 to 13.0]), posterior crossbite (OR [95% CI] = 3.04 [1.2 to 7.5]) and tooth wear facets (OR [95% CI] = 3.32 [1.2 to 8.7]) had a greater chance of exhibiting SB. Sucking habits, posterior crossbite and tooth wear facets were identified as being directly associated with the clinical manifestations of bruxism.

Highlights

Sleep bruxism (SB) is defined as a parafunctional behaviour of the mandible, characterized by clenching and/or grinding of the teeth.[1]
Temporomandibular disorders, joint pain and pain during mastication are associated with the manifestation of SB
The occurrence of sleep bruxism has been reported with varying frequencies in the general population.[6,9]

Summary

Introduction

Sleep bruxism (SB) is defined as a parafunctional behaviour of the mandible, characterized by clenching and/or grinding of the teeth.[1] The aetiology and characteristics of bruxism have not yet been well defined.[2] studies point to different associated risk indicators, such as local, psychological, genetic, neurological, systemic and social factors.[2,3,4,5] The prevalence of SB ranges from 3% to 90% in adults and from 7% to 88% in children.[6]. Long-term approaches include forms of reducing stress, changes in lifestyle, the control of habits, myorelaxation plates and night-time dental guards to protect the teeth and mastication system.[7,8,9]

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Methods

Conclusion