Awake Bruxism Among Weightlifters in Chennai City-A Cross Sectional Prevalence Study

Physical strain is a potential contributing factor for bruxism, particularly among athletes, but limited research exists among weightlifters. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of awake bruxism among weightlifters in Chennai City and evaluate their knowledge and attitudes toward preventive measures.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 272 professional weightlifters aged 25-40 years using purposive sampling. Participants were evaluated using the Standardized Tool for the Assessment of Bruxism (STAB), which included self-reported behavior and clinical examination for signs such as linea alba, lip/tongue impressions, and tooth wear using the Tooth Wear Evaluation System. A validated 7-item questionnaire assessed knowledge and attitudes. Descriptive measures and Chi-square tests were used to analyze the data.

Self-reported bruxism was observed in 68.01% of participants, while clinical signs included linea alba (61.02%), lip impression (48.16%), and tooth wear (63.97%). Though 66.9% had adequate knowledge of bruxism, only 29.04% exhibited a positive preventive attitude. Poor knowledge was significantly associated with the presence of all clinical signs (p < 0.001), while poor attitude correlated with a higher prevalence of self-reported bruxism and tooth wear (p < 0.001).

Awake bruxism is highly prevalent among weightlifters, with limited preventive attitudes despite moderate knowledge. These findings indicate the need for targeted education and screening strategies in fitness populations to reduce the prevalence of oral health disorders.