Association of possible sleep bruxism in children with different chronotype profiles and sleep characteristics

Sleep bruxism (SB) in children has been associated with several sleep characteristics, which may alter their sleep pattern. This change affects the internal biological clock and consequently the chronotype profile. The aim of this study was to evaluate the existence of an association between possible SB in children with specific chronotype profiles and sleep characteristics. The study included 207 parents/guardians of children aged between 3 and 12 years who were waiting for their children's dental treatment at the Pediatric Dentistry Clinic of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A questionnaire on the socio-demographic characteristics of parents and children as well as on the features of the children's sleep was applied. In addition, the CIRENS scale (Circadian Energy Scale) was completed by the parents to identify the children's chronotype. A chi-squared test was used to determine the association between possible SB, the chronotype, and sleep characteristics. A multiple logistic regression model was implemented to observe the influence of chronotype, age, and other independent variables on the possible SB. The logistic regression model demonstrated that nocturnal agitation (p = 0.009; OR = 3.42) and nightmares (p = 0.045; OR = 3.24) were associated with possible SB in children. Although no significant association (p = 0 .089) between the chronotype profile and possible SB was observed in the 3 to 5 years age group, a proportional difference was observed between the chronotype categories in this age group-12.5% of children with SB had a morning type, while 26.4% had an intermediate type and 47.8% an evening type compared to those without possible SB. Nocturnal agitation and nightmares were associated with possible SB. In addition, young children with an evening chronotype had a tendency toward possible SB.