Prevalência de bruxismo em crianças e adolescentes e sua relação com fatores demográficos, socioeconômicos e perinatais

Abstract

Bruxism is a parafunctional activity characterized by clenching and grinding of teeth, which can occur during sleep or wakefulness. It has been linked to decreased quality of life, temporomandibular joint disorders, headaches and dental attrition. Yet, considering that data related to its prevalence and etiological factors remain controversial, we sought to present two articles in this study. The first is a systematic review that analyzed the prevalence of bruxism in childhood and adolescence as well as the role of perinatal, socioeconomic, and demographic determinants on its occurrence. The prevalence of bruxism varied dramatically, showing a decreasing trend with advancing age. Although socioeconomic and demographic factors were associated with its occurrence, there is still insufficient evidence available correlating bruxism and perinatal factors. The second article is a prospective birth cohort study carried out in São Luís, Brazil, that included follow-up evaluations. The prevalence of bruxism in childhood was estimated and the influence of low birth weight and preterm birth on the onset of bruxism was analyzed. The prevalence of bruxism in childhood was high. Low birth weight was found to be associated with bruxism in early life and this association was mediated by the socioeconomic status, pacifier use and exclusive breastfeeding, which showed a protective effect on this association.