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

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