The Relationship Between Perceived Stress and Demographic and Lifestyle Variables Among University Students Diagnosed with Bruxism: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study

Background: Bruxism is a parafunctional activity often linked to psychological factors such as stress. University students, due to academic and social pressures, are especially vulnerable to bruxism and high stress levels. However, the relationship between perceived stress and various demographic and lifestyle variables in bruxism-diagnosed students remains underexplored. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 101 university students in Türkiye diagnosed with bruxism. Data were collected via an online structured questionnaire that included the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Variables such as gender, age, academic year, GPA, caffeine consumption, physical activity, and the medical specialty of the diagnosing professional were analyzed using independent samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation tests. Results: The average perceived stress score was 19.05 (SD = 5.72). Female students reported significantly higher stress scores than males (p = .033). Stress levels also significantly varied according to the diagnosing professional's specialty, with psychiatrists and neurologists associated with higher stress scores compared to dentists (p = .013). No significant associations were found between stress levels and age, academic year, GPA, caffeine use, or physical activity. The most frequently reported stress factors were feelings of anger, loss of control, and being overwhelmed. Conclusions: The study highlights that perceived stress in bruxism-diagnosed university students is significantly associated with gender and the psychological focus of the diagnosing clinician. The findings suggest a biopsychosocial approach is essential in diagnosing and managing bruxism in university settings. Gender-sensitive stress management interventions should be developed, and interdisciplinary care pathways encouraged.