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

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.