Health behaviors and multimorbidity associated with bruxism: Population-based study

Determine the prevalence of possible bruxism in the adult population of Campinas, Brazil, and investigate its association with health behaviors, health status, and multimorbidity.

A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted with data from the 2014/2015 Campinas Health Survey. The sample was composed of 1986 adults (≥20 years of age). The data were collected with the aid of a pre-coded questionnaire, and the dependent variable was self-reported bruxism (possible bruxism). The prevalence of possible bruxism was estimated according to the independent variables (health-related behaviors, morbidities, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics). A hierarchical model was employed using stepwise backward regression in two stages. Principal component analysis was also performed to identify multimorbidity patterns.

The prevalence of possible bruxism was 13.6%. Associations were found with the consumption of alcoholic beverages, sleep quality, and the number of chronic diseases/health problems. Bruxism was more associated with multimorbidity pattern 2, which was composed of asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis, dizziness/vertigo, migraine/headache, emotional/mental problem, back pain, and allergy.

The present findings justify the planning of actions directed at reducing the consumption of alcoholic beverages and can help guide the health actions of the multidisciplinary team, prioritizing a reduction in the harm caused by the simultaneous presence of health problems associated with possible bruxism.