Possible predictors of temporomandibular disorders

Abstract

Design Prospective cohort study of 402 randomly selected individuals aged 7-, 11- and 15-years' old at baseline. A total of 320 people completed a questionnaire after 20 years, with 100 patients who were aged 15 at initial examination being re-examined.

Outcome measures The questionnaire included questions about the presence of symptoms such as headaches, frequent stress or depression, previous trauma to the face and experience of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) during the 20 years of observation, and current demand for TMD treatment. The clinical examination was conducted to measure any TMD signs and symptoms including limitation to range of movement, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds and pain. Tooth wear was recorded on a 5-point scale where 1 was no wear and 5 was wear of more than one-third of the clinical crown.

Results Data from the questionnaire and clinical examinations were combined and regression analysis performed. The presence of bruxism, oral parafunctions, TMJ clicking and deep bite at baseline were found to be significant predictors of TMD (see Table 1).

Conclusions Some signs and symptoms appear to be predictors of TMD. More research is needed, however, to determine if any of these parameters can be used to predict TMD in the long-term.

Log in or create a free account to read this content

Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com

Access through your institution

or

Sign in or create an account

Continue with Google

Continue with ORCiD