Circadian Misalignment, Lifestyle Disruption, and Oral Health Outcomes among Day and Night Shift IT Professionals: A Cross-sectional Comparative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Shift work, particularly in the Information Technology (IT) sector, has become increasingly prevalent, often leading to disruption of the circadian rhythm. Such disturbances can adversely affect biological homeostasis, influencing lifestyle behaviours including sleep patterns, dietary habits, and oral hygiene practices. Emerging evidence suggests that these alterations may have significant implications for oral health outcomes. Therefore, the present study aims to assess the relationship between circadian rhythm disruption, associated lifestyle factors, and oral health status among day-shift and night-shift IT professionals. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 176 IT professionals using a pre-validated online questionnaire assessing sleep patterns, lifestyle behaviours, and self- reported oral health symptoms. Participants were categorized as day-shift and night-shift workers, and data were analysed using Chi-square tests with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Night-shift workers reported significantly delayed sleep onset, poorer sleep quality, and higher night-time caffeine consumption compared with day-shift workers. Gingival bleeding and bruxism were significantly more prevalent among night-shift workers, while other symptoms such as xerostomia and halitosis were reported more frequently but were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Circadian rhythm disruption associated with night -shift work may negatively affect lifestyle patterns and oral health among IT professionals, emphasizing the importance of targeted preventive and occupational health strategies