Aim. The aim of the study was to analyze the intensity of bruxism in patients with different amounts of dental arch reduction in relationship with prosthetic treatment needs. Material and methods. The study group included 120 individuals of both genders, aged 41–65, selected from patients admitted to The Department of Prosthodontics, Wrocław Medical University in the years 2007–2010. Patients were divided into two study groups depending on the amount of dental arch reduction and a control group including individuals with complete natural dentition. All patients underwent a routine interview and general oral cavity examination. The assessment of bruxism intensity was carried out on the basis of the Bruxism Intensity Index by Panek. The data obtained underwent statistical analysis. Results. The results of this study on parafunctions indicate a higher intensity of bruxism (B3, B4) together with a reduction in dental arch. The prevalence of bruxism was similar in both study groups and only a little higher than in the control group. Conclusions. 1) There is only a minor correlation between a reduction of dentition and the prevalence of bruxism. 2) Individuals with extremely shortened dental arches revealed a higher intensity of bruxism, thus this group of patients has the highest treatment needs and prosthetic rehabilitation in this group is inevitable.

Key words: shortened dental arch, bruxism, prosthetic rehabilitation.