Accuracy of the Fonseca anamnestic index in the identification of myogenous temporomandibular disorder in female community cases

Somatic and temporomandibular disorder symptoms - Idioms of psychological distress in Southeast Asian youths

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence/severity of somatic and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms in Southeast Asian youths and determine their associations with psychological distress.

METHODS

Demographic information, Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15), Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), and Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) responses were gathered electronically and analyzed using non-parametric statistical and logistic regression analysis (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Of 400 youths (mean age 18.7 ± 1.7 years; 52.3% females), 65.0%/47.0% reported somatic/TMD symptoms, and 10.5% had TMDs. Significant differences in psychological distress were observed among the varying severity of somatic/TMD symptoms. Correlations between PHQ-15/FAI and DASS-21 scores were weak to moderately strong (rs = 0.30-0.61). Stepwise logistic regression indicated that female gender, TMD symptoms, and stress were risk factors for somatic symptoms, while somatic symptoms and stress were probable factors for TMDs.

CONCLUSION

Somatic and TMD symptoms are common in Southeast Asian youths and may be a manifestation of psychological distress.

Psychometric properties of the Indonesian Fonseca anamnestic index and the presence/severity of temporomandibular disorders among Indonesian young adults

OBJECTIVE

The psychometric properties of the Indonesian FAI (FAI-I) and presence/severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) among Indonesian young adults were explored.

METHODS

The FAI-I was developed following the INfORM guidelines and used to determine the presence/severity of TMDs. Internal consistency/test-retest reliability were examined with Cronbach's alpha/intra-class correlation (ICC) coefficients. Construct/criteria validity were established by correlating (Spearman) the FAI-I to the five major TMD symptoms (5 Ts) and OHIP-14 (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Five hundred-one participants (mean age 19.73 ± 1.27 years; 75.2% women) were recruited from a local University. Of these, 40.7% had no TMD, while 49.9%, 8.8%, and 0.6% had mild, moderate, and severe TMD. While Cronbach's α = 0.57 and ICC = 0.72, correlation coefficients to total 5 Ts and OHIP-14 were 0.53 and 0.47, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The FAI-I had low internal consistency, good test-retest reliability, and good validity. Moderate-to-severe TMD was experienced by 9.4% of the young adults examined.

Is there a relationship between the presence of external root resorption in second molars adjacent to impacted mandibular third molars with awake bruxism and masticatory muscle activity?

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess whether awake bruxism and masticatory muscle activity could be related to external root resorption (ERR) in second molars adjacent to impacted mandibular third molars.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty patients, with requests for a cone-beam, computed tomography, were divided into two groups: ERR (patients with ERR in the second molar, n = 30), and control group (n = 30). Awake bruxism was assessed through the Oral Behaviors Checklist (OBC) and an ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to assess the masseter and anterior temporal muscle function. Normality and homogeneity of variances were demonstrated. Descriptive analysis was performed, using the T-test and Chi-square test to compare the characteristics of the groups. A multiple regression model was performed.

RESULTS

The ERR group presented more non-functional oral activities related to awake bruxism than the control group, according to OBC (p = 0.027) and EMA (p = 0.035). In addition, the ERR group had higher EMG activity than the control group in rest and isotonic protocols (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Awake bruxism and greater masticatory muscle activity seem to be related to the presence of ERR in second molars adjacent to impacted mandibular third molars.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The results of the present study can reinforce the theory that triggering ERR in the second molars adjacent to impacted mandibular third molars may be related to mechanical forces coming from the masticatory function.

Diagnostic and screening inventories for temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review

Objective: To evaluate reliable and validated temporomandibular disorder (TMD) diagnostic instruments for use as diagnostic tools in epidemiological surveys.Methods: Two independent reviewers performed searches in the Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases to identify validation studies of diagnostic and screening instruments for TMD published up to March 2021.Results: Sixteen studies were included for the systematic review. Different TMD instruments were evaluated, such as FAI, RDC/TMD, DC/TMD, Helkimo Index, and AAOP Questionnaire. The instruments differed according to the number of items. Some questionnaires appear to be effective for the initial screening of TMD patients and can be incorporated in clinical practice and epidemiological studies since they are easy and fast to apply.Conclusion: To provide an accurate TMD diagnosis, it is important to use instruments that involve a clinical examination. Authors suggest the development of a new validated diagnostic tool for use in epidemiological surveys.

Accuracy of the Fonseca Anamnestic Index for identifying pain-related and/or intra-articular Temporomandibular Disorders

Objectives: This study established the diagnostic accuracy of the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) in relation to the Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (DC/TMD) standard.Methods: A total of 866 TMD patients and 57 TMD-free controls were instructed to answer the FAI and DC/TMD Symptom Questionnaire (SQ). Participants were subsequently categorized into no (NT), pain-related (PT), and/or intra-articular (IT) TMDs using the DC/TMD protocolized examination/algorithms. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves, best cut-off points, and accuracy measures were determined.Results:The FAI demonstrated high accuracy for detecting all TMDs, PT, and IT (AUC = 0.96-0.98). The best cut-off points were 22.50 for all TMDs/IT and 27.50 for PT. Sensitivity of the FAI was high (94.23-98.21%), but specificity was moderate (87.72%) for all diagnostic categories.Discussion:The diagnostic accuracy of the FAI for identifying pain-related and intra-articular TMDs was high. FAI scores ≥25 points should be used to screen for TMDs.

The "5Ts" screening tool: Enhancements and threshold values for effective TMD identification

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to enhance the quintessential "five temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms" (5Ts) screener by incorporating frequency options and distinguishing between TMJ and muscle pain. The diagnostic accuracy along with cut-off points for the effective identification of TMDs was also established.

METHODS

Participants, aged ≥18 years, were recruited from a university-based hospital. After completing surveys encompassing demographic data and the enhanced 5Ts (with frequency options [5Ts-F] and differentiation of TMJ/muscle pain [6Ts-F]), protocolized interviews and clinical examinations were performed following DC/TMD. The diagnostic accuracy and best cut-off points were determined with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs).

RESULTS

324 participants were recruited (mean age 30.0 ± 11.4 years). Among these, 86.4% had TMDs. 5Ts exhibited high diagnostic accuracy for detecting all TMDs (AUC = 0.92) with sensitivity/specificity values of 83.9%/88.6%. Both 5Ts-F and 6Ts-F had slightly better accuracy (AUCs = 0.95/0.96), comparable sensitivity, and superior specificity (97.7%) compared to 5Ts. The best cut-off points were 1.5 for 5Ts and 2.5 for 5Ts-F/6Ts-F.

CONCLUSIONS

Although all three TMD screeners presented high diagnostic accuracy, 5Ts-F/6Ts-F had notably improved specificity. 5Ts scores of >1.5 and 5Ts-F/6Ts-F scores of >2.5 are to be applied for screening the presence of TMDs.

Efficacy of scapulothoracic exercises on proprioception and postural stability in cranio-cervico-mandibular malalignment: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Cranio-cervico-mandibular (CCM) malalignment is associated with forward head posture (FHP) and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and affects masticatory muscles.

OBJECTIVE

This randomized, double-blind controlled trial aimed to compare the efficacy of scapula-thoracic (ST) exercises on temporomandibular and cervical joint position sense and postural stability in individuals with CCM malalignment.

METHODS

Fourty-nine participants with CCM malalignment were randomly assigned to the ST exercise group (STEG, n= 24) or the control group (CG, n= 25). STEG included progressive strengthening, proprioceptive, and stabilization exercises. All participants were assessed before treatment, at the end of the 8th week treatment period and at the 12th week post-treatment follow-up. Cranio-vertebral angle measurement, Fonseca's Questionnaire, Helkimo Clinical Dysfunction Index, TMJ position test, cervical joint position error test and postural stability assessment were used.

RESULTS

The TMJ and cervical joint position sense, total sway degree, area gap percentage, sway velocity and antero-posterior body sway results showed significant improvement in the STEG compared to the CG (p< 0.05), however medio-lateral body sway did not differ between groups (p> 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Postural stability, TMJ and cervical joint position sense appear to be affected in individuals with CCM malalignment. Our results showed that an exercise program including ST stabilization, proprioception and strengthening of the scapular muscles may be effective in the management of CCM malalignment and will allow clinicians to plan holistic treatment.

Short-term heart rate variability at rest in individuals with temporomandibular disorder: a comparative analysis

OBJECTIVE

Compare heart rate variability (HRV) indices in participants with and without myogenic temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Secondarily, we correlated HRV indices with pain and quality of life variables.

METHODS

This is a comparative observational cross-sectional study. Individuals of both genders with and without a history of TMD were included. Short-term heart rate variability was assessed using a Polar V800. Central sensitization was assessed using the Central Sensitization Inventory. Pain through the numeric pain scale and the impact of oral health on quality of life using the OHIP-14 questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 80 participants were enrolled in the study: most individuals included in both groups were young adults, women and slightly overweight. We observed a decrease in HRV in the TMD group (p < 0.01) when compared to the control group. In addition, we observed a greater impact of oral health on quality of life, central sensitization in addition to high resting pain scores (p < 0.01). We observed significant correlation between the LF index of HRV and the FAI score (r = 0.311; p = 0.05). The NPS, CSI and OHIP-14 scores did not correlate with any of the HRV indices (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The short-term HRV in individuals with TMD is significantly lower when compared to a control group. Furthermore, there seems to be a relationship between the severity of the dysfunction and the HRV variables.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Using portable and low-cost devices, the HRV can be easily collected and analyzed, without the need for an arsenal of equipment such as the conventional electrocardiogram. This measure can contribute to the therapy adopted and identify individuals prone to unfavorable outcomes involving ANS modulation.

The association between sleep quality, depression, anxiety and stress levels, and temporomandibular joint disorders among Turkish dental students during the COVID-19 pandemic

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the association between sleep quality, depression, anxiety and stress levels, and the frequency of temporomandibular disorders in a sample of Turkish dental students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

The current cross-sectional study was conducted with 699 dental university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) were used in the present study.

RESULTS

The incidence of temporomandibular joint disorders in the present study was found to be 77.5%. Female students' FAI scores were found to be statistically significantly higher than males (p < 0.05). Additionally, higher depression and anxiety and stress levels caused increased PSQI and FAI scores.

CONCLUSION

During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased temporomandibular joint disorders were observed with increased impaired sleep quality and higher depression, anxiety and stress levels among dental university students.

Correlates between temporomandibular disorder severity, emotional distress, and eudaimonic well-being among young adults

OBJECTIVES

This study examined the correlates between severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), emotional distress, and eudaimonic well-being.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

TMD severity, negative emotions, and eudaimonia were assessed with the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21), and Psychological Well-being Scale-18 (PWBS-18) in a cohort of community young adults. Statistical evaluations were done with non-parametric tests/correlation and multivariate regression analyses (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Amongst the 873 participants (mean age 19.8 ± 1.66 years), 40.7%, 49.0%, and 10.3% had no (NT), mild (MT), and moderate-to-severe (ST) TMD, respectively. Significant differences in total-DASS, depression, anxiety, and stress were ST ≥ MT > NT. Significant variances in total-PWSB and self-acceptance were NT > MT > ST while that for environmental mastery, positive relations, and purpose in life were NT > MT, ST. An inverse relationship was discerned between total-DASS and total-PWBS (correlation coefficient = -0.54). The prospect of ST was increased by anxiety but reduced by positive relations and self-acceptance.

CONCLUSIONS

Young adults with mild and moderate-to-severe TMD experienced substantially higher emotional distress and lower eudaimonia than those with no TMD. As emotional distress and eudaimonic well-being are interrelated, positive psychological interventions may be beneficial for managing TMD-related psychosocial disabilities.

Do Temporomandibular Disorder Patients with Joint Pain Exhibit Forward Head Posture? A Cephalometric Study

Purpose

To evaluate head and cervical posture in individuals with or without temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and to assess the correlations between pain, severity of symptoms, and posture.

Methods

A total of 384 patients (129 males and 255 females) was included. The Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) was used to assess the severity and prevalence of TMD and the presence of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. Patients were divided into three groups: the TMD-free group, TMD without TMJ pain group, and TMD with TMJ pain group. Subsequently, the patients with TMJ pain were further divided into mild TMD and moderate/severe TMD groups. Nine parameters were traced on cephalograms to characterize the head and cervical posture.

Results

TMD patients with TMJ pain showed increased forward head posture (FHP) than patients without TMJ pain and TMD-free subjects. No significant difference was observed between the TMD patients without TMJ pain and TMD-free subjects. In the TMD patients with the TMJ pain group, the moderate/severe TMD patients demonstrated increased FHP compared to mild TMD patients. TMD patients with joint pain had greater CVT/RL (B = 3.099), OPT/RL (B = 2.117), and NSL/C2' (B = 4.646) than the patients without joint pain after adjusting for confounding variables (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

TMD patients with TMJ pain showed increased FHP compared to other groups, and FHP became more significant as TMD severity increased in male patients, indicating the FHP might play an important role in the development of TMJ pain. In the clinical assessment of TMD, the patients' abnormal head and cervical posture might be considered.

The accuracy and reliability of the Turkish version of the Fonseca anamnestic index in temporomandibular disorders

OBJECTIVE

To determine the reliability and diagnostic accuracy of the Turkish version of the Fonseca anamnestic index (FAI-T).

METHODS

The cultural equivalence of the FAI was established according to the International Network for Orofacial Pain and Related Disorders Methodology. The test-retest reliability, internal consistency, and diagnostic accuracy of the FAI-T was carried out in a sample of 66 controls and 139 patients with TMD. Diagnostic accuracy of the FAI-T was evaluated against the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders.

RESULTS

Internal consistency analysis resulted in a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.805. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values of each index question ranged from 0.739 to 0.897. FAI had a high level of accuracy (area under the ROC curve of 0.928).

CONCLUSION

The results provide considerable evidence that the FAI-T can be used as a screening tool for the identification of TMD in Turkish-speaking populations.

COVID-19 vaccination and psychological status of Iranian dental students

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the association of COVID-19 vaccination with the quality and quantity of sleep, the level of stress, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders (TMDs) in Iranian dental students.

Materials and methods

In this cross-sectional research, we applied a questionnaire including 30 questions on the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), sleep quality and quantity, Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD), and vaccination status. All vaccinated students of the dental schools located in the city of Tehran were invited to participate in the study. Participants were divided into three groups: those vaccinated for less than a month, those vaccinated for 1-3 months, and those vaccinated for more than 3 months. A paired t-test served for statistical analysis.

Results

Overall, 171 out of 235 students (72.77%) completed the questionnaire, among which 90 individuals were fully vaccinated, and were included in the data analysis. Stress levels decreased (mean difference = -1.23, p-value = 0.002) and sleep quality and quantity improved mostly 1-3 months after the vaccination (mean difference = -0.5, p-value = 0.016). However, TMD symptoms were mostly alleviated in people vaccinated for more than 3 months (mean difference = -2.86, p-value <0.05). In this respect, no significant difference was observed between the two genders.

Conclusion

According to the results of the study, vaccination was associated with the improvement of psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is recommended that further longitudinal studies be conducted on larger sample sizes and different age groups by using various data collection methods (especially regarding the assessment of TMD).

Negative affectivity and emotions in youths with temporomandibular disorders across cultures

OBJECTIVE

The relationships between temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and negative affectivity/emotions across cultures and the emotional predictors for TMDs in Southeast Asian youths were investigated.

METHODS

The presence of TMDs and negative affectivity/emotions were determined with the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) and Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21). Statistical evaluations were done with non-parametric and logistic regression analyses (α.

RESULTS

The total sample comprised 400 Singaporean and 501 Indonesian youths (mean age 19.30 ± 1.48 years; 65.0% women) of whom 47.0% and 59.3% had mild-to-severe TMDs, respectively. For both cultures, participants with TMDs had significantly greater negative affectivity, depression, anxiety, and stress than those with no TMDs. Indonesian youths also presented higher levels of emotional distress than their Singaporean counterparts. Correlations between FAI and anxiety/stress scores were moderately strong.

CONCLUSION

Cultural variations can influence the expression of TMDs and emotional distress. Being female and anxious increased the risk of TMDs.

Strength of scapular elevation in women with TMD and asymptomatic women

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is recognized for its high prevalence, presenting characteristic signs and symptoms. Cervical spine pain is present in 70% of diagnosed TMD cases. Aim: To verify if women with TMD present changes in isometric muscle strength in the scapula elevation. Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional study. Thirty-five women, aged 22.89±2.04 years, were divided into the TMD group (TMDG), diagnosed with TMD according to the DC/TMD, and control group (CG), with asymptomatic individuals. The volunteers accessed a online link by the smartphone in order to answer questions on personal data, the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Masticatory preference. In all participants, evaluation of the force of the scapula elevation muscles was performed, using a load cell model MM-100 (Kratos® SP, Brazil). Data were analyzed descriptively using the maximum, mean, and standard deviation and a two-way ANCOVA test was applied for all variables. A significance level of 5% was considered. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the TMDG and CG for the maximal and mean muscle strength of scapular elevation. There were statistically significant differences in FAI (p <0.001*) between the CG and the TMDG. Conclusion: Based on the results, it was not possible to confirm the hypothesis that women diagnosed with TMD present lower isometric strength during scapular elevation (right/left).  

Psychometric properties of the Malay Fonseca Anamnestic Index for temporomandibular disorders

OBJECTIVE

This study translated/cross-culturally adapted the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) for temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) into Malay and psychometrically tested the Malay-FAI (FAI-M).

METHODS

The FAI-M was created according to international guidelines. Internal consistency/test-retest reliability were assessed with Cronbach's alpha/intra-class correlation (ICC) coefficients. Construct and convergent validity were appraised by relating the FAI-M to the Global Oral Health (GOH) questionnaire and Short-form Oral Health Impact Profile (S-OHIP) using Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman's rho correlation (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Of the 243 participants enrolled, 54.7% (n = 133) had no TMDs, while TMDs were present in 45.3% (n = 110). The FAI-M presented very good internal consistency (α = 0.90) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.99). Theoretically predicted FAI-M score patterns matched the GOH categories, and strong correlations were discerned between FAI-M and S-OHIP (rs = 0.71).

CONCLUSION

The FAI-M exhibited good psychometric properties and can be applied in Malay-speaking populations.

Is scoliosis related to mastication muscle asymmetry and temporomandibular disorders? A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) may face motor control problems and health disability barriers during mandibular movements and chewing. However, studies investigating the extent of these disadvantages, and possible associated factors are quite limited in patients with AIS. This study was conducted to gain a deeper perspective on the effect of AIS on temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and to contribute to the small amount of data on this subject.

METHODS

Twenty-nine patients with AIS and 29 age- and sex-matched asymptomatic controls participated in this cross-sectional study. Cobb's method was used to measure scoliosis curves. In both groups, the volume of the masseter muscle was determined on magnetic resonance imaging, and Helkimo and Fonseca anamnestic indexes were used to evaluate temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

RESULTS

It was observed that the TMD symptoms were higher in the AIS group (22.6- Helkimo and 1.2 - Fonseca) than the asymptomatic group (13.6 - Helkimo and 0.7 - Fonseca). There was no significant asymmetry in masseter volume in patients with AIS, however the volume of the masseter muscles was smaller in the AIS group (R = 14.6/L = 13.6) compared to the control group (R = 16.1/L = 16.2).

CONCLUSIONS

The study results indicate that spinal curvatures affect the anatomical, biomechanical, and kinesiological features of the masticatory system, and individuals with AIS may experience more chewing problems than asymptomatic individuals. Examining musculoskeletal properties of masticatory system can provide information about the limitation of the TMJ in patients with AIS.

Predictability and Accuracy of the Short-Form Fonseca Anamnestic Index in Relation to the Modified Helkimo Index for the Diagnosis of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictability and accuracy of the Short-Form Fonseca Anamnestic Index (SFAI) in relation to the modified Helkimo Index for the diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional, prospective, and analytical predictive study was conducted in 240 students of a public institute of higher technological education in Ica, Peru during the months of February to May 2018. The SFAI of 10 closed questions and the Helkimo Index modified by Maglione (gold standard) were used as instruments to diagnose TMDs. For the analysis of concordance between both instruments, Cohen's Kappa Index was applied. To evaluate the association according to gender and age group, Pearson's chi-square test was used. For validity of the SFAI in relation to accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were calculated, and they were verified by receiver operating characteristics (ROC) to determine the best cutoff points (area under the curve [AUC]) considering a P value < 0.05. Regarding the predictability of the SFAI, the positive and negative predictive value was calculated by applying Bayes' theorem.

Results

The SFAI was highly significantly associated with the modified Helkimo Index according to gender (P < 0.001), age group (P < 0.001), and overall (P < 0.001) moderate overall agreement (k = 0.416; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.287-0.545); better concordance was obtained in individuals older than 20 years (k = 0.490, CI = 0.302-0.679) and women (k = 0.565, CI = 0.371-0.759). The ROC curve analysis of the SFAI showed good accuracy (0.852, CI = 0.800-0.905) and was highly significant (P < 0.001), with an optimal cutoff point of 17.5 and good sensitivity (80.10%) and specificity (74.36%). In addition, a very good positive predictive value (PPV) (94.15%) and a fair negative predictive value (NPV) (42.02%) were obtained.

Conclusions

Although there was moderate concordance between the SFAI and the modified Helkimo Index for the diagnosis of TMDs, the SFAI obtained good accuracy in the overall analysis of sensitivity and specificity. In addition, it demonstrated a high predictive efficacy for detecting positive TMD cases, whereas its ability to rule out positive cases was fair.

Association between Self-Reported Bruxism, Peripartum Depression and Myogenous Temporomandibular Disorders among Postpartum Women in Turkey

Background/Aim: It is possible to find studies in the literature evaluating the relationship among self-reported bruxism, psychological factors, and myogenous temporomandibular disorder. In addition, the relationship between these issues has not yet been clarified. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between peripartum depression, self-reported bruxism, and myogenous temporomandibular disorders among postpartum women in Turkey.

Material and Methods: This study included 220 women, whom were asked about their bruxism behaviour during day and during sleep. Besides, all of them assessed with Short-Form Fonseca’s Anamnestic Index for myogenous temporomandibular disorder and the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale for peripartum depression.

Results: The results showed that, self-reported bruxism was observed at a statistically significantly higher rate (94.3%) in peripartum depression group. 86.5% of the patients with self-reported bruxism had myogenous temporomandibular disorder (p<0.001). As a result, 80.0% of the patients with peripartum depression had myogenous temporomandibular disorder (p<0.001).

Conclusions: In conclusion, a significant relationship has been found between peripartum depression and self-reported bruxism, self-reported bruxism and myogenous temporomandibular disorder, and peripartum depression and myogenous temporomandibular disorder. The present study is the first to evaluate the relationship between peripartum depression, self-reported bruxism, and myogenous temporomandibular disorder so it could be considered as a pilot attempt, and further studies using more representative samples are encouraged.

Comparison of psychological states and oral health-related quality of life of patients with differing severity of temporomandibular disorders

BACKGROUND

Studies on temporomandibular disorder (TMD) severity in patient populations are scarce.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to compare the psychological states and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among patients with differing TMD severity.

METHODS

Adult patients (≥18 years old) with and without (controls) TMDs were recruited from the TMD/oro-facial pain centre and prosthodontics department, respectively. The presence and severity of TMDs were established with the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), and TMD diagnoses were confirmed with the Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs (DC/TMD). Psychological states and OHRQoL were examined with the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21) and Oral Health Impact Profile for TMDs (OHIP-TMD). Data were subjected to chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis/Mann-Whitney U tests and Spearman's correlation (α = .05).

RESULTS

A total of 961 participants with a mean age of 32.99 ± 13.14 years (71.19% women) were assessed. Frequencies of the various TMD categories were as follows: no TMD/controls (12.07%), mild TMD (24.56%), moderate TMD (40.37%) and severe TMD (23.00%). The three most common TMD-related symptoms were TMJ noises, mouth opening difficulty and muscle pain. Participants with moderate/severe TMD presented a higher proportion of intra-articular and/or combined disorders. They reported significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety, stress and poorer OHRQoL than their counterparts with no/mild TMD (p < .001). Moderate-to-strong correlations were observed between FAI and DASS-21/OHIP-TMD scores (rs = 0.42-0.72).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with moderate/severe TMD had significantly higher levels of psychological disturbance and poorer OHRQoL. As OHRQoL and psychological states are correlated, psychological well-being must be considered when managing patients with moderate/severe TMDs.

Temporomandibular disorders in prospective orthodontic patients

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence and severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) in prospective orthodontic patients. The association between TMDs and malocclusion severity as well as the impact of TMDs on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) were also examined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 350 consecutive patients seeking orthodontic treatment were invited to participate in the study. The presence of TMDs was established with the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), while malocclusion severity and OHRQoL were evaluated using the Peer Assessment Rating (PAR) index and Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14), respectively. Data were analyzed using chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U tests and Spearman's correlation (P < .05).

RESULTS

Of the 350 patients, 164 consented to participation. Data from 26 participants were excluded because of incomplete entries, and that from 138 subjects (mean age 21.02 ± 5.45 years) were examined. TMD-related symptoms were present in two-thirds of the subjects, with 20.3% experiencing moderate/severe TMDs. While no significant difference in PAR scores were observed between the group with no TMDs and those with TMDs, subjects with TMDs had significantly higher OHIP-14 summary/domain scores than those without TMDs. Although a moderately strong correlation was observed between the FAI and summary OHIP-14 scores (rs = 0.57), no association was observed between FAI and PAR index scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of TMD-related symptoms in prospective orthodontic patients was high, emphasizing the importance of screening the masticatory system before initiating orthodontic therapy. Although the presence of TMDs was not associated with malocclusion severity, it had a significant negative impact on OHRQoL.

Stress and emotional distress: their associations with somatic and temporomandibular disorder-related symptoms

Although Asians are posited to be predisposed to somatization, studies on the inter-relationships between emotional and physical symptoms in Asian youths are still limited. This study determined the associations between emotional, somatic, and Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)-related symptoms in Asian youths. Youths were recruited from a local polytechnic and the prevalence/severity of emotional distress was ascertained with the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21. Somatic and TMD-related symptoms were appraised with the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 and Fonseca Anamnestic Index. Data were analysed using non-parametric statistical and logistic regression analysis (p < 0.05). The study sample (n = 400; 209 females) had a mean age of 18.7 ± 1.7 years. Moderate-to-severe depression, anxiety, and stress were present in 31.0%, 36.8%, and 16.5% of the subjects respectively. Subjects with moderate-to-severe emotional distress had significantly higher somatic and TMD symptom scores (p < 0.001). Correlations between emotional and somatic/TMD symptom scores were moderately strong (r_s = 0.46-0.61). Stepwise logistic regression indicated that moderate-to-severe somatization was associated with the female gender, anxiety, and stress, and moderate-to-severe TMDs were related to somatization and stress. Asian youths with elevated emotional distress experienced significantly higher levels of somatic and TMD-related symptoms. The stress construct appears to pose a greater risk for somatization and TMDs than depression and anxiety.

Diagnostic accuracy of the short-form Fonseca Anamnestic Index in relation to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Screening for temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) is important in research and clinical practice. The short-form Fonseca Anamnestic Index (SFAI) was recently introduced but had only been validated for muscle disorders.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this clinical study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the SFAI and its discrete and pooled items in relation to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) benchmark.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 866 consecutive participants with TMDs and 57 TMD-free controls (aged ≥18 years) were recruited. The participants (n=923; mean age 32.8 ±13.3 years; women 79.2%) answered the FAI, and TMD diagnoses were derived based on the DC/TMD protocol and algorithms. The 5-item SFAI, which comprised 2 pain-related and 3 function-related TMD questions, was subsequently acquired and assessed with reference to the DC/TMD diagnoses. The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) was used to verify accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]) and the best cutoff points. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and likelihood ratios were also examined.

RESULTS

Pain-related (PT) and intra-articular (IT) TMDs were present in 48.3% (446/923) and 82.7% (763/923) of the participants, respectively. The SFAI demonstrated high accuracy for identifying all TMDs, PT, and IT (AUC of 0.97, 0.99, and 0.97, respectively). The best cutoff points were 12.5 for all TMDs/IT and 17.5 for PT. Sensitivity of the SFAI ranged from 90.7% to 97.5% while specificity varied from 93.0% to 96.5%, with the highest values for PT. As positive predictive values (99.4% to 99.5%) were greater than negative ones (41.7% to 83.3%), the SFAI was better at detecting the presence than the absence of TMDs. With reference to PT, the sensitivity, and specificity of the 2 discrete and pooled pain-related questions (questions 3 and 4), extended from 82.3% to 99.3% and 77.2% to 96.5% respectively. With regard to IT diagnoses, sensitivity and specificity ranged from 56.0% to 98.3% and 86.0% to 98.3% for the 3 discrete and pooled function-related items (questions 1, 2, and 5).

CONCLUSIONS

The SFAI presented high degrees of diagnostic accuracy in relation to the DC/TMD and can be used for screening TMDs. SFAI scores between 15 and 50 points should be used to identify the presence of TMDs, with scores ≥20 points specifying possible pain-related TMDs.

Fall Efficacy Scale-International cut-off score discriminates fallers and non-fallers individuals who have had stroke

BACKGROUND

Falls, which are common events after stroke, may lead to activity limitations and increased dependence. It is important to identify which commonly employed clinical measures could differentiate individuals, who are fallers from the non-fallers.

AIM

To investigate specific cut-off values of clinical measures that could discriminate fallers and non-fallers individuals with chronic stroke.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study involved 105 community-dwelling individuals with stroke. The primary outcome was report of falls over the last six months. The clinical predictors included measures of mobility (walking speed, stair ascent/descent cadences, time to perform the Timed Up and Go test, and ABILOCO) and the Fall Efficacy Scale - International (FES-I) scores. To identify which measures were able to detect between-group differences, independent Student's t-tests were employed. For measures which were able to discriminate fallers from the non-fallers, the Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) and the Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC) were calculated.

RESULTS

Out of the 105 participants (61 men), 41% reported falls over the previous 6 months. Stair ascent cadence, ABILOCO, and FES-I scores significantly differentiated the groups, but only the FES-I demonstrated acceptable discriminatory ability (AUC = 0.71). The optimal FES-I cut-off score was 28 points (sensitivity = 0.71; specificity = 0.57; positive predictive value = 51%; and negative predictive value = 74%).

CONCLUSIONS

The FES-I demonstrated good discriminatory ability to classify individuals with chronic stroke, who were fallers from the non-fallers. The use of the established cut-off value of 28 points is recommended and may help clinical reasoning and decision-making in stroke rehabilitation.

TMD diagnosis: Sensitivity and specificity of the Fonseca Anamnestic Index

OBJECTIVE

To verify whether the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) has adequate sensitivity and specificity to be used in the diagnosis of temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

METHODS

Two hundred-sixty-five participants with symptoms of TMDs were assessed through the FAI and through the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) and then classified as sick or non-sick. The sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of the FAI in relation to the RDC/TMD were calculated using the STATA 14.0 software.

RESULTS

Most of the patients were female, white, without a steady job, and the average age was 37.57 years. The FAI showed high sensitivity (97.21%) but obtained a low specificity (26.00%). The positive and negative predictive values were 84.96% and 68.42%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The FAI is very sensitive in identifying patients who actually have TMD but not very specific in identifying non-TMD patients, being indicated only for initial screening of patients.

Comparison of the pattern of activation of the masticatory muscles among individuals with and without TMD: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To verify the characteristics of the electromyographic signal of masticatory muscles in individuals with TMD and asymptomatic individuals.

METHODS

A systematic review was carried out, selecting cross-sectional studies with at least one electromyographic parameter (FM; iEMG; RMS) of the masticatory muscles (anterior temporal, bilateral masseter, and suprahyoid muscles) of individuals with TMD compared to asymptomatic individuals.

RESULTS

This review identified 1656 titles, of which 30 articles were included in the final analysis. It was observed that the data referring to the pattern of activation of masticatory muscles in the rest, isometry, and isotonic conditions of individuals with TMD are heterogeneous. This fact may be related to variability in the methods and analyses applied in the studies.

CONCLUSION

Data referring to the pattern of activation of masticatory muscles in the rest and isometry conditions and in the mastication cycle of individuals with TMD and asymptomatic individuals are diverse.

Transcultural Adaptation and Validation of the Fonseca Anamnestic Index in a Spanish Population with Temporomandibular Disorders

BACKGROUND

The Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) offers a simple method to screen temporomandibular disorders (TMD). This study aimed to validate the Spanish version of the FAI in patients with TMD.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 125 subjects (66 TMD and 59 controls) aged over 18 years. Construct validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, concurrent validity and capacity to discriminate between TMD and healthy subjects were analyzed.

RESULTS

The Spanish version of the FAI showed a structure formed by three factors. Cronbach's alpha was 0.826. The reliability of the items varied between substantial to almost perfect and was excellent for the total score (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.937). The standard error of measurement (SEM) was 6.52, with a minimum detectable change (MDC) of 12.78. FAI score showed a significant correlation with headache, neck pain and vertigo measurements. A cut-off point >35 showed a sensitivity = 83.33% and a specificity = 77.97% in differentiating between healthy and TMD patients, with an area under the curve (AUC) = 0.865.

CONCLUSIONS

The Spanish version of the FAI is a valid and reliable instrument for diagnosing people with TMD, with appropriate general clinimetric properties. Discrimination between patients with and without TMD is excellent.

The Arabic Fonseca Anamnestic Index: Psychometric properties and use for screening temporomandibular disorders in prospective orthodontic patients

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop/evaluate the psychometric properties of the Arabic Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI-A) and estimate the prevalence of TMDs in prospective orthodontic patients.

METHODS

The FAI-A was derived by forward-backward translation/cross-cultural adaption of the English FAI. Psychometric assessment of the FAI-A was performed with 308 orthodontic patients. Reliability was established via internal consistency and test-retest techniques, whereas, validity was verified by construct and convergent validity.

RESULTS

Cronbach's alpha value for the FAI-A was 0.77, and the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.99. For construct validity, the distribution of eigenvalues indicated that three items (mouth opening difficulty, jaw movement difficulty, and jaw fatigue) accounted for 60.5% of the total variance observed. For convergent validity, the FAI-A items were significantly correlated to the global question.

CONCLUSION

The FAI-A showed good reliability/validity and may be useful for screening TMDs. About 17% of prospective orthodontic patients presented with moderate-to-severe TMD symptoms.

Association between convergence insufficiency and temporomandibular disorder cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Evaluate whether there is an association between convergence insufficiency and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and whether there is an association between pain and range of motion in different degrees of TMD.

METHODS

We evaluated 138 individuals with TMD and 46 without TMD using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for temporomandibular disorders, the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), Numeric Pain Rating Scale, and the measurement of mandibular range of motion (ROM). Convergence insufficiency was diagnosed using the convergence test and Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey. Analysis of variance was used to compare age and mandibular ROM. The Kruskal-Wallis was used to compare mandibular ROM and pain between groups. The chi-square test was used to evaluate associations between TMD subgroups and the FAI, sex, and ocular convergence.

RESULTS

The majority of individuals without TMD did not exhibit convergence insufficiency. The frequency convergence insufficiency was significantly higher among individuals with severe TMD (p < 0.003). Mean pain severity differed between individuals with and without TMD. Mandibular ROM diminished with the increase in TMD severity.

CONCLUSIONS

Convergence insufficiency, age, the increase in pain, and the reduction in mandibular range of motion were associated with the degrees of TMD severity. Despite the significant associations between convergence insufficiency and both pain and TMD severity, these variables cannot be indicated as predictive factors due to the low variability in the linear regression analysis.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The present findings can assist in decision making regarding the treatment of severe TMD and the evaluation of ocular convergence.

International consensus on the most useful assessments used by physical therapists to evaluate patients with temporomandibular disorders: A Delphi study

OBJECTIVE

To identify assessment tools used to evaluate patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) considered to be clinically most useful by a panel of international experts in TMD physical therapy (PT).

METHODS

A Delphi survey method administered to a panel of international experts in TMD PT was conducted over three rounds from October 2017 to June 2018. The initial contact was made by email. Participation was voluntary. An e-survey, according to the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys (CHERRIES), was posted using SurveyMonkey for each round. Percentages of responses were analysed for each question from each round of the Delphi survey administrations.

RESULTS

Twenty-three experts (completion rate: 23/25) completed all three rounds of the survey for three clinical test categories: 1) questionnaires, 2) pain screening tools and 3) physical examination tests. The following was the consensus-based decision regarding the identification of the clinically most useful assessments. (1) Four of 9 questionnaires were identified: Jaw Functional Limitation (JFL-8), Mandibular Function Impairment Questionnaire (MFIQ), Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia for Temporomandibular disorders (TSK/TMD) and the neck disability index (NDI). (2) Three of 8 identified pain screening tests: visual analog scale (VAS), numeric pain rating scale (NRS) and pain during mandibular movements. (3) Eight of 18 identified physical examination tests: physiological temporomandibular joint (TMJ) movements, trigger point (TrP) palpation of the masticatory muscles, TrP palpation away from the masticatory system, accessory movements, articular palpation, noise detection during movement, manual screening of the cervical spine and the Neck Flexor Muscle Endurance Test.

CONCLUSION

After three rounds in this Delphi survey, the results of the most used assessment tools by TMD PT experts were established. They proved to be founded on test construct, test psychometric properties (reliability/validity) and expert preference for test clusters. A concordance with the screening tools of the diagnostic criteria of TMD consortium was noted. Findings may be used to guide policymaking purposes and future diagnostic research.

Functional, physical and psychosocial impact of Temporomandibular Disorders in adolescents and young adults

Background

This community-based study investigated the functional, physical and psychosocial impact of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs) in adolescents and young adults. It also determined the discriminative capacity of a TMDs-specific oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) instrument and compared three formats of appraising OHRQoL data.

Material and Methods

Subjects were recruited from a local Polytechnic. The presence of TMDs was established with the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), whilst TMDs-specific OHRQoL was evaluated with the Oral Health Impact Profile–TMDs (OHIP-TMDs). Demographic information, FAI and OHIP-TMDs responses were gathered with an on-line questionnaire. Data was analysed using Mann-Whitney U-test, chi-square test and Spearman’s rho correlation with significance level set at 0.05.

Results

Data from a total of 244 participants were compiled and examined. The “no TMDs” (NT) group consisted of 140 subjects (119 females; 21 males) with a mean age of 20.41±3.29 years, while the “with TMDs” (WT) group composed of 104 subjects (88 females; 16 males) aged 19.82±3.04 years. Significant differences in median severity scores were observed between subjects with and without TMDs for all OHIP-TMDs domains and total OHIP (p values < 0.001). For appraisal of extent and prevalence, significant differences were again observed (p values < 0.05) with the exception of the functional limitation and handicap domains.

Conclusions

TMDs impacted physical and psychosocial well-being of adolescents and young adults. OHIP-TMDs, preferably appraised by severity, extent and prevalence, was able to discriminate between subjects with and without TMDs. It holds promise as a TMDs-specific OHRQoL instrument for epidemiological studies.

Key words:Temporomandibular Disorders, Oral health, Quality of life, Biopsychosocial.

Correlation Between Habitual Physical Activity and Central Sensitization, Pain Intensity, Kinesiophobia, Catastrophizing, and the Severity of Myogenous Temporomandibular Disorder

OBJECTIVE

We sought to correlate habitual physical activity with central sensitization, pain intensity, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, and the severity of chronic myogenous temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

METHODS

This was an observational study. Fifty-five individuals, male and female, aged 18 to 45 years, with pain for at least 3 months (chronic) related to myogenous TMD were included in the study. Myogenous TMD was evaluated by means of the Numerical Rating Scale, Catastrophic Thoughts on Pain Scale, Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, Fonseca Anamnestic Index, Central Sensitization Inventory, and habitual physical activity by means of the Baecke Questionnaire (BQ). The Spearman correlation coefficient (r s) was applied to verify the association of the BQ score with the pain variables.

RESULTS

No significant correlations (P > .05) were observed in the total or mean BQ scores (both r s = -0.17 to -0.04), nor in the analyses performed on the occupational (r s = -0.03 to 0.14), sport (r s = -0.16 to 0.01), and leisure domains (r s = -0.16 to -0.02).

CONCLUSION

Habitual physical activity as measured by the BQ is not associated with pain intensity, catastrophizing, kinesiophobia, central sensitization, or the severity of chronic myogenous TMD.

Severidade da disfunção temporomandibular e sua relação com a postura corporal

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar se existe correlação entre a severidade da disfunção temporomandibular (DTM) e postura corporal, bem como evidenciar as diferenças existentes na postura corporal nos diferentes graus de severidade. Foram avaliadas 71 mulheres de 18 a 35 anos quanto à severidade da DTM e à postura corporal, sendo divididas em grupo sem DTM e grupo com DTM. Foram utilizados o questionário Mandibular Function Impairment Questionnaire e o software Digital Image-Based Postural Assessment de avaliação postural por fotogrametria. Foi realizada análise estatística com ANOVA de um fator e teste de correlação Tau B de Kendall (α<0,05). Os grupos com e sem DTM apresentaram diferenças estatísticas, com tamanho de efeito grande (ŋ2>0,528), para: lordose cervical, pulsão e inclinação da pelve. Quanto à correlação da postura com a severidade da DTM, índices fracos, mas significativos, foram encontrados: ângulo da lordose cervical (τ=0,250), ângulo da cifose dorsal (τ=0,192), ângulo de inclinação pélvica (τ=−0,222) e medida de pulsão da pelve (τ=0,283). Esses resultados indicam que a lordose cervical e a pulsão da pelve se apresentam em aumento da lordose e da pulsão conforme o acréscimo da severidade da DTM, enquanto o ângulo de inclinação se apresenta em menor grau, tendendo à retroversão. Apesar das correlações fracas, os resultados evidenciam alguma relação da postura corporal com a DTM.

Evaluation of primary headache associated with temporomandibular dysfunction in adolescents from Santos, SP, Brazil: an observational study

[Purpose] Evaluate the association of primary headache and Temporomandibular Dysfunction in healthy adolescents from the Santos, SP, Brazil. [Participants and Methods] A total of 208 adolescents, aged 11 to 16 years old were randomly selected at the dentistry clinic at Universidade Metropolitana de Santos. For that, the Fonseca Anamnestic Index was applied, including information such as: limitation when opening the mouth and moving the jaw, headaches, pain in the temporomandibular joint, noises in the temporomandibular joint, and the habit of tightening or grinding the teeth. The data were submitted to descriptive statistical analysis and the χ² test and Fisher’s exact test were used to evaluate the association of categorical variables. [Results] The results were 63% of male participants, and 61% of female participants had Temporomandibular Dysfunction. In both genders headache was associated with the presence of Temporomandibular Dysfunction, with 93 participants with light headache and 39 with moderate headache. [Conclusion] There was an association between headache and the presence of Temporomandibular Dysfunction, and the percentage of affected males was slightly higher among this association. In the sample of adolescents who presented Temporomandibular Dysfunction, moderate headache was the main reported symptom of both genders.

Temporomandibular joint disorder determined by Fonseca anamnestic index and associated factors in 18- to 27-year-old university students

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and associated risk factors.

METHODS

This study was conducted using 212 university students. Based on the Fonseca anamnestic index, the population was divided into two groups: those with TMD and those without TMD. The two groups were compared in terms of global body posture, craniohorizontal and craniovertebral angles, neck and temporomandibular joint range of motion, stress level, and sleep quality.

RESULTS

Stress level, sleep quality, and left cervical rotation were found to have statistical differences between the groups (p = 0.00, 0.00, and 0.046, respectively). Sleep quality and stress level were found to be important risk factors for the presence of TMD (p = 0.017 and 0.00, respectively).

DISCUSSION

In the prevention and treatment of TMD, a holistic approach that evaluates mechanical factors and psychosocial factors should be adopted.

Self-medication Among Myofascial Pain Patients: A Preliminary Study

Background

Self-medication has been reported as an option which people choose to relieve the suffering of conditions that cause pain, however, this could delay the correct diagnosis and therapy.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of self-medication among patients with Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), and to analyze correlations with the severity of the disease.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted with patients who had been diagnosed with TMD. The patients were submitted to anamnesis and a physical examination. This research also used the Fonseca`s Anamnestic Index (FAI) and a questionnaire that was developed specifically for this study, containing questions related to the first health professional contacted and self-medication. The data were analyzed using comparative and correlative analysis (Version 18.0 of SPSS software), with the level of significance set at p<0.05.

Results

Thirty-four patients were included, with a prevalence of females (91.2%) and a mean age of 39.76 years. Half of the patients claimed to have chosen their own medications at time, especially analgesics. Sodium dipyrone was used by 12 of the participants. Dentists were the most commonly contacted health professionals (55.5%). No correlation was found between self-medication and the severity of TMD according to the FAI. Furthermore, the time period between the onset of symptoms and the first consultation was not affected by self-medication.

Conclusion

Self-medication seems to be highly prevalent among patients with TMD, although this practice does not seem to alter the severity of the disease.

Analysis of the accuracy and reliability of the Short-Form Fonseca Anamnestic Index in the diagnosis of myogenous temporomandibular disorder in women

BACKGROUND

The Fonseca Anamnestic Index is a questionnaire used to classify individuals with temporomandibular disorders. Previous studies have shown that the Fonseca Anamnestic Index provides a multidimensional measurement of the temporomandibular disorders construct and that the main dimension presents a good fit to the model according to the item response theory.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the between-day reliability, accuracy, and best cut-off score of the Short-Form Fonseca Anamnestic Index for the diagnosis of myogenous temporomandibular disorders.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 123 women (57 with myogenous temporomandibular disorders and 66 asymptomatic), evaluated by the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. The participants answered the Short-Form Fonseca Anamnestic Index on two occasions with a seven-day interval between tests. For the analysis of between-day reliability, the intraclass correlation coefficient, the standard error of measurement and the minimum detectable change were used. The Receiver Operating Characteristic curve was used to determine the diagnostic accuracy and the best cut-off point.

RESULTS

The Short-Form Fonseca Anamnestic Index demonstrated excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient≥0.95) for all items and for the total Short-Form Fonseca Anamnestic Index score (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.98; standard error of measurement=3.28; minimum detectable change=9.09). The level of accuracy of the Short-Form Fonseca Anamnestic Index for the diagnosis of myogenous temporomandibular disorders was high (area under the curve of 0.97), with a better cut-off score of 17.5 points.

CONCLUSION

The Fonseca Anamnestic Index should be used in its short form to classify the absence of myogenous temporomandibular disorders (scores between 0 and 15 points) or presence of myogenous temporomandibular disorders (scores between 20 and 50 points) in women.

Association Between Severity of Temporomandibular Disorders and the Frequency of Headache Attacks in Women With Migraine: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the magnitude of association of the severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) in women with episodic and chronic migraine.

METHODS

Thirty-one women with episodic migraine (mean age: 33 years), 21 with chronic migraine (mean age: 35 years) and 32 healthy controls (mean age: 31 years) were included. The Fonseca Anamnestic Index was applied to assess severity of TMDs. TMD severity was considered as follows: no TMD (0-19 points), mild TMD (20-49 points), moderate TMD (50-69 points), and severe TMD (70-100 points). To compare the proportion of TMD severity among groups, a χ² test was performed. Prevalence ratio (PR) was calculated to determine the association of TMD severity and both migraine groups using the control group as the reference.

RESULTS

Women with chronic and episodic migraine were more likely to exhibit TMD signs and symptoms of any severity than healthy controls (χ² = 30.26; P < .001). TMD prevalence was 54% for healthy controls, 78% for episodic migraine, and 100% for chronic migraine. Women with chronic migraine exhibited greater risk of more severe manifestations of TMD than healthy controls (PR: 3.31; P = .008). This association was not identified for episodic migraine (PR: 2.18; P = .101).

CONCLUSION

The presence of TMD signs and symptoms was associated with migraine independently of the frequency; however, the magnitude of the association of more severe TMD was significantly greater in chronic, but not episodic, migraine.

Factor and Rasch analysis of the Fonseca anamnestic index for the diagnosis of myogenous temporomandibular disorder

BACKGROUND

Rasch analysis has been used in recent studies to test the psychometric properties of a questionnaire. The conditions for use of the Rasch model are one-dimensionality (assessed via prior factor analysis) and local independence (the probability of getting a particular item right or wrong should not be conditioned upon success or failure in another).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the dimensionality and the psychometric properties of the Fonseca anamnestic index (FAI), such as the fit of the data to the model, the degree of difficulty of the items, and the ability to respond in patients with myogenous temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

METHODS

The sample consisted of 94 women with myogenous TMD, diagnosed by the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD), who answered the FAI. For the factor analysis, we applied the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test, Bartlett's sphericity, Spearman's correlation, and the determinant of the correlation matrix. For extraction of the factors/dimensions, an eigenvalue >1.0 was used, followed by oblique oblimin rotation. The Rasch analysis was conducted on the dimension that showed the highest proportion of variance explained.

RESULTS

Adequate sample "n" and FAI multidimensionality were observed. Dimension 1 (primary) consisted of items 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7. All items of dimension 1 showed adequate fit to the model, being observed according to the degree of difficulty (from most difficult to easiest), respectively, items 2, 1, 3, 6, and 7.

CONCLUSION

The FAI presented multidimensionality with its main dimension consisting of five reliable items with adequate fit to the composition of its structure.

Clinical effects of an avocado-soybean unsaponifiable extract on arthralgia and osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint: preliminary study

The aim of the present preliminary study was to investigate the effectiveness of an avocado-soybean unsaponifiable extract (ASU) in patients with arthralgia and osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was carried out. Fourteen women diagnosed with arthralgia and osteoarthritis of the TMJ using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders were included in the statistical analysis. The women were allocated randomly to two groups: ASU group and placebo group. Pain was measured using a visual analogue scale and pressure algometer. Mandibular function was evaluated through measurement of mandibular movements. Quality of life was measured using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). The medication (ASU capsules or placebo capsules) was used for 4 months and the total follow-up was 6 months. Those taking the ASU extract had a decrease in pain symptoms and an improvement in quality of life. Moreover, a significant reduction in the use of rescue medication was found in the ASU group compared to the placebo group. This preliminary study provides strong evidence of the effectiveness of an avocado-soybean unsaponifiable extract in patients with degenerative joint diseases and arthralgia in the TMJ. Further studies with larger samples should be performed.