Association between sleep bruxism, use of antidepressants, and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: A cross-sectional study

Background: Sleep bruxism (SB) is a condition regulated centrally, with a multifactorial etiology, which can occur secondary to systemic disorders and the use of certain medications.

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify associations between SB, obstructive sleep apnea, and hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and the use of antidepressants.

Material and methods: In this cross-sectional study, 240 individuals underwent full-night polysomnography for medical reasons. Anamnesis was performed to collect data about the use of antidepressants and general health conditions. Polysomnography was performed to analyse sleep data and assess respiratory-related events and apnea and hypopnea index (AHI). The polysomnographic assessment of SB was performed, from electrodes placed on masseter muscles and chin. SB was defined by the presence of more than two events of rhythmic masticatory muscles activity per hour of sleep. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the presence of SB and AHI, the severity of OSAHS, and the use of antidepressants.

Results: There were statistically significant differences between bruxers and non-bruxers when comparing AHI (48.28 ± 25.84; p = .001) and severity of OSAHS (p = .015). Regarding the use of antidepressants, comparative analyses did not show correlations with bruxism (p = .072). However, logistic regression suggests that the use of these medications may represent increased odds for SB development (OR =2.387; p = .005).

Conclusion: The relationship between the use of antidepressants and SB remains inconclusive. SB is associated with OSAHS, mainly in its severe form. Therefore, identifying SB can raise the suspicion of the occurrence of other systemic disturbances.