Lifestyle and oral facial disorders associated with sleep bruxism in children.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to investigate the routine, sleep history, and orofacial disorders associated with children aged 3-7 years with nocturnal bruxism.

METHODS

Children (n = 66) were divided into groups of parent reported nocturnal bruxism (n = 34) and those without the disorder (n = 32). Data about the child's routine during the day, during sleep and awakening, headache frequency, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and hearing impairments were obtained through interviews with parents/caregivers. Electromyography examination was used to assess the activity of facial muscles. Multiple logistic regression (MLR), chi-square test, and t-test analyses were performed.

RESULTS

MLR revealed association of nightmares (p = 0.002; OR = 18.09) and snoring (p = 0.013; OR = 0.14) with bruxism. Variables related to awakening revealed an association with bruxism (p < 0.05). Parents of the main group (children with nocturnal bruxism) reported more complaints of orofacial pain, facial appearance, and headache occurrence (p < 0.05). Auditory and muscle disorders were not significant variables (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Nightmares and snoring are associated with nocturnal bruxism in children. Bruxism in children elicits consequences such as headache, orofacial pain, and pain related to awakening.