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The anxiety in bruxer child. A case-control study
A Monaco1, N M Ciammella, M C Marci
1Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontostomatological Clinic, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
Minerva Stomatologica
|July 31, 2002
Summary
Childhood bruxism may be linked to anxiety. This study found anxious children were 16 times more likely to exhibit bruxism, suggesting anxiety is a key factor in its development.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Child Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The exact causes of bruxism in children remain unclear, with potential links to dental issues, sleep disturbances, and emotional stress.
- This research investigates the role of anxiety in the development of childhood bruxism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that anxiety levels, measured by the "Anxiety Scale for evolutive age," correlate with the prevalence of bruxism in children.
- To quantify the association between anxiety and bruxism in a pediatric population.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-six children (aged 7-11) were evaluated, comprising 43 children with bruxism and 43 age-matched controls.
- Bruxism severity was assessed using a 0-3 dental wear scale, and anxiety was measured with the "Anxiety Scale for evolutive age."
- Statistical analysis included Odds Ratio and the Mc Nemar test to determine significant associations.
Main Results:
- A significant difference in anxiety levels was observed between the groups: 72% of bruxers reported significant anxiety versus 12% of non-bruxers.
- The Odds Ratio indicated that children with bruxism have a 16-fold higher probability of experiencing anxiety compared to their non-bruxer peers.
Conclusions:
- The findings strongly support the hypothesis that anxiety is a significant contributing factor in the development of bruxing behavior among children.
- This study highlights the importance of considering psychological factors, particularly anxiety, in the management of childhood bruxism.