Is there a relation between sleeping habits and nocturnal bruxism,
temporomandibular disorders, dental trauma and caries among children?
Abstract
Objective: Sleep disorders are common among children and have a negative
impact on growth and development. Recently reports demonstrate a
possible association with oral findings as well. The aim of this study
was to evaluate the possible association between sleeping habits,
bruxism, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), traumatic dental injuries
(TDI) and dental caries in children. Material and Methods: A
cross-sectional study was carried out at IAU Faculty of Dentistry with a
representative sample of a hundred children aged between 6-13.
Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) was completed by their
parents. Intra oral examination was carried out in a clinical setting
and presence of nocturnal bruxism, history of TDI were recorded for each
child. Results: Among sleeping habits, bed time resistance was found
significantly related with children who had nocturnal bruxism and
temporomandibular disorders. Untreated dental caries was also found
significantly associated with sleep fragmentation. However, no relation
was found with traumatic dental injuries. Conclusion: Children with
symptoms of bruxism, TMD and untreated dental caries might experience
negative impacts on their sleeping habits and characteristics.
Pediatricians and pedodontists should work in collaboration to identify
causes and clinical features of sleeping habits and disorders in order
to avoid negative effects on stomatognathic system.