Obstructive sleep apnoea, sleep bruxism and gastroesophageal reflux – mutually interacting conditions? A literature review

The purpose of the present manuscript is to provide an overview for researchers and clinicians summarizing the knowledge concerning the relationship between some of the main sleep-related conditions of dental interest: sleep bruxism (SB), obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Starting with the discussion of the evolving current knowledge on SB, the interconnections are discussed. Most of the available literature focused on the possible relationship between OSA and SB, but a clear pathophysiological connection or temporal relationship has not been identified. Despite the paucity of data on the possible commonalities, SB, OSA and GERD constitute a complex network of conditions that may affect the clinical and research dental practice, and they are rarely found in isolation. In this scenario, the key role of dental practitioners as sentinel in the case of these sleep-related conditions is important, thanks to their ability and the knowledge to identify signs, symptoms and risk factors that are signs of ongoing sleep-related conditions. Thus, dental practitioners are recommended to view bruxism as a potential gateway to medicine.