Prevalance and Related Factors of Bruxism in Children, A Preliminary Study
Abstract
Sibel ACAR and Sedanur Eroglu Efe
Aim: Bruxism is a parafunctional habit that is frequently observed in children and is characterized by unconscious clenching and grinding of teeth. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of bruxism in children aged 3-12 years in UÅ?ak, Turkey and to evaluate the factors associated with bruxism. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with parents of 346 children aged 3-12 years who attended the Usak University School of Dentistry Pediatric Dentistry Clinic within 3 months. The children were diagnosed with bruxism using a questionnaire based on the American Academy of Sleep Medicine criteria administered to their parents. With this questionnaire consisting of six questions, factors related to bruxism were also assessed. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 for Windows (SPSS, Chicago, Il.,USA). Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to assess the statistical differences between categorical variables. Results: The prevalence rate of bruxism was 24.9%. There was a significant correlation between bruxism and pain around the temple and gums in the morning. Bruxism was more common in children reported to be stressed by their families. A statistically significant relationship was found between stress and bad habits such as nail biting and thumb sucking p<0,005). Conclusion: The prevalence of bruxism is high in childhood and associated with many factors. Early diagnosis and treatment of bruxism are important to reduce the incidence of future temporomandibular dysfunctions.