Evaluation of Risk Factors Associated with Bruxism in Adult Turkish Population

ABSTRACT Objective. The aim of the study is to evaluate various risk factors thought to be associated with the etiology of bruxism in adults in Turkey. Materials and Methods. 400 adults aged 17-60 years were examined in terms of probable bruxism using the bruxism survey and clinical examination findings. The survey method was used to evaluate the correlation of bruxism with gastroesophageal reflux, gastric ulcer, gastritis, migraine, antidepressant use, cigarette consumption, alcohol consumption, caffeine consumption, and marital status between bruxist and control groups. Results. It was found that gastroesophageal reflux, gastric ulcer, migraine, antidepressant use, caffeine consumption, and cigarette consumption were significantly higher in bruxists (P=.000, P=.004, P=.000, P=.000, P=.000, and P=.008, respectively). No significant difference was observed between bruxist and control groups in terms of the presence of gastritis, alcohol consumption, and marital status (P=.163, P=.221, and P=.913 respectively). While presence of migraine (P=.041) was higher in bruxist females, cigarette and alcohol consumption was higher in bruxist males (P=.000 and P=.001 respectively). Conclusions. In conclusion, it was determined that medical disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux, gastric ulcer, and migraine as well as antidepressant use and cigarette consumption and caffeine consumption were risk factors associated with bruxism. If dentists are aware that these risk factors may cause or exacerbate bruxism, this may be beneficial in preventing damage to the mastication system before it occurs, and in planning treatment correctly.