Relationship between temporomandibular and sleep disorders in adults: An overview of systematic reviews

OBJECTIVE

This study emphasizes the general relevance of sleep disorders (SD) and temporomandibular disorders (TMD), explores their bidirectional relationship, and describes the importance of systematic reviews in the critical analysis of the literature. This review aimed to comprehensively summarize the relationship between SD and TMD in adults while ensuring a reliable and objective analysis of data from the existing literature.

METHODS

Systematic reviews were evaluated to investigate this association between two conditions in adults. The study was registered with Prospero and followed the PECOT structure in identifying the research question. Searches in multiple databases were conducted until February 2024 using relevant keywords. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews tool, involving two independent reviewers.

RESULTS

Data were extracted using different evaluation instruments, and results were analyzed and presented through the synthesis of information collected in selected systematic reviews. The selection included seven systematic reviews of observational studies, with exclusion criteria defined to ensure methodological quality. The results showed that reviewed studies presented clarity and relevance in defining the eligibility criteria, but that the identification and selection of studies, data collection, and synthesis of results varied. Most studies considered the potential risks, but some require greater transparency and methodological rigor.

CONCLUSIONS

This review points out the association between SD and TMD in adults, with most studies presenting a low risk of bias, although some uncertainties were observed.

Stress is simultaneously related to sleep and temporomandibular disorders

PURPOSE

This study aimed to clarify the relationship between the oral environment and psychological factors as predictor variables of sleep quality, in addition to inferring the relevant mechanisms of sleep and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) by analyzing the relationship between TMDs and stress.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 1,032 participants, comprising 420 men and 612 women, from the 2017 Iwaki Health Promotion Project using multiple regression analysis. The primary endpoints were the scores of each item in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and its sum. Predictor variables included the number of teeth; TMDs; stress, assessed using the World Health Organization-5 (WHO-5); sleep bruxism; and oral health-related quality of life, assessed using the oral health impact profile-14 (OHIP14). The confounding factors included age, body mass index, and alcohol intake.

RESULTS

Multiple regression analysis revealed that TMDs (β value = 0.293, p = 0.034) and stress (β value = 1.3, p < 0.001) were significantly correlated with the PSQI total score. In addition, TMDs were significantly correlated with stress (β value = 0.076, p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

The significant relationship between sleep and TMDs suggests that mental stress contributes to the development sleep disorders and consequently is associated with the development of TMD symptoms.

The Temporomandibular Joint and the Human Body: A New Perspective on Cross Talk

Background: As a unique joint that facilitates the articulation of the upper and lower jaws, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is concerned with several critical functions, such as speech and mastication. Pain that can become incapacitating is a result of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which are complex disorders affecting the masticatory muscles and the TMJ. Several anomalies and TMDs have an interdisciplinary relationship. Complementary and concurrent disorders may be caused by occlusal anomalies, psychological disorders, and changes in spine posture. Methods: This article examines the clinical characteristics of TMDs, their classification, their etiological factors, and the impact of TMJ disorders on the human body with reference to their anatomies and histological structures. Results: The clinical picture of some TMJ pathologies may be unknown, so certain biomarkers, such as cytokines, may be useful for an accurate diagnosis as they are frequently seen in TMJ disorders. Furthermore, novel therapeutic approaches that target pro-inflammatory cytokines and treat TMDs by using tissue engineering and regenerative medicine while permitting TMJ cartilage and bone regeneration may offer numerous benefits that require clinical translation. Conclusions: Implementation of recent modalities such as microvesicles and platelet-rich plasma in growth factors may provide a promising approach to enhance bone formation. In addition, we target different biological markers that give insights into the introduction of new pharmaceutical agents for therapy.

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.

Temporomandibular joint disorders and associated factors in a Turkish pediatric population

OBJECTIVE

To explore the presence and severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) signs and symptoms in a Turkish pediatric population, as well as their relationship to parafunctional behaviors, bruxism, malocclusion, anxiety, and sociodemographic traits.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted with patients between the ages of 5-15. Demographic variables, TMD signs and symptoms, parafunctional habits, bruxism, and malocclusion were evaluated by clinical examination. Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) was used to determine the presence and severity of TMD. State-Trait Anxiety Scale for Children (STAI-C) was used to evaluate the anxiety. Student t, Mann-Whitney U, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

One hundred sixty-two participants (85 girls, 77 boys) with a mean age of 10.03 ± 1.88 years were included. The frequency of the participants who reported signs/symptoms of TMD was 19.7% according to FAI scores. Logistic regression analysis with the associated factors showed a significant relationship between the presence of the signs/symptoms of TMD and parafunctional habits (OR 4.24, 95% CI 1.64-10.93), and the presence of signs/symptoms of anxiety (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.02-1.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Children and adolescents who exhibit parafunctional behaviors and anxiety had a higher likelihood of having TMD signs/symptoms of varying degrees of severity.

Prevalence of temporomandibular disorders and their associated factors in Confucian heritage cultures: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) may be an 'idiom' of psychological distress in Confucian heritage cultures (CHCs).

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review/meta-analysis estimated the prevalence of TMDs in CHCs and compared the differences in TMD occurrence between time periods and age groups. Additionally, the associated biopsychosocial risk factors were also examined.

METHODS

The study protocol was developed a priori following the PRISMA guidelines and Joanna Briggs Institute systematic review methodology (CRD42021245526). Electronic searches of seven databases were conducted from January 2002 to Dec 2021. Reference lists of identified studies were hand-searched for additional articles. Study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction were done. Meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.4 software.

RESULTS

Forty-eight articles were included in the systematic review. Overall prevalences were: TMDs-15% (95% CI: 15-16%); TMD pain-8% (95% CI: 7-9%); TMJ sounds-24% (95% CI: 21-27%); and TMJ locking-7% (95% CI: 1-13%). While TMD prevalence appeared to have declined from 2002 to 2011 to 2012-2021, the occurrence of TMD pain, TMJ sounds, and locking increased marginally or remained constant. TMD prevalence in children/adolescents was 18% (95% CI: 14-22%) and 17% (95% CI: 16-18%) among adults. Significant associations between TMDs and bruxism/psychological distress/education levels were specified by 73%/90%/88% of the relevant studies.

CONCLUSIONS

TMDs are prevalent in CHCs and a slight increase in TMD pain (2%) and TMJ sounds (8%) were discerned over the past two decades. TMDs are related to a myriad of biopsychosocial variables, particularly psychological distress, and these factors must be addressed within the cultural context of patients.

The Link Between Temporomandibular Disorders and Jaw Functional Limitations Among Chinese Adolescents

BACKGROUND

Currently, there is still controversy surrounding the relationship between temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) symptoms and jaw functional limitations. We investigated the distribution of TMDs in senior high school students, including both the number and types of symptoms, and assessed their association with jaw functional limitations. Furthermore, we explored sex differences in these associations.

METHODS

This study was conducted at a public high school in Hefei, Anhui Province, China, with data collected from September to October 2022. All subjects completed questionnaires assessing the anamnestic symptoms of TMDs and the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS), and examinations were performed by trained dentists according to the Diagnostic Criteria for TMD. Data were analysed using the Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Chi-square tests.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants (N = 2890) was 17.2 ± 0.14 years and 38.9% were females (61.1% were males). Limitations in self-assessed jaw function were associated with the presence of TMDs (P < .05). Participants with more symptoms reported significantly high levels of functional limitations (P < .05). Compared to male adolescents, female adolescents more commonly experienced TMDs pain and tended to have more symptoms (P < .05). However, no sex differences were observed in most associations between TMDs and jaw functional limitations.

CONCLUSION

TMDs-positive symptoms are common in adolescents. Female adolescents were more affected by TMDs symptoms than male adolescents. Individuals with more TMDs symptoms have greater jaw functional limitations.

Prevalence of psychological disorders in patients with temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) affect the muscles of mastication, the temporomandibular joint, and associated structures. They are generally classified as muscular or articular and are the main cause of pain in the orofacial region, eventually causing psychological problems. However, the real burden of psychological disorders is unknown.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the prevalence of psychological disorders in patients with TMDs.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was conducted through a bibliographic search carried out without initial limit until July 2021 in the following electronic databases: MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO. Clinical observational studies investigating depression and somatization in patients with TMD diagnosed by the Diagnostic Research for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) criteria in muscular, articular, and disc disorders were included. A descriptive analysis of the included studies and a meta-analysis for the prevalence data were performed for the synthesis of evidence.

RESULTS

A total of 2320 studies were found, of which 48 complete articles were assessed for eligibility and 22 were included in the analysis. The general prevalence of depression and moderate and severe somatization in patients diagnosed with TMD was estimated at 43.0% (95% confidence interval (CI), 36.0% to 50.0%) and 60.0% (95% CI 52.0 - 67, 0%). The average overall score for depression was estimated at 0.92 (95% CI, 0.69-1.15), being classified as moderate depression. The average overall score for somatization was estimated at 1.09 (95% CI, 0.81-1.36), being classified as severe somatization. All analyses showed high heterogeneity (I2>90%). Based on the quality assessment, 80.9% of studies included in the review had low to moderate risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with TMDs who seek clinical care show a high prevalence of depression and somatization.

Temporomandibular disorder symptoms, sleep quality, and burnout syndrome in teachers

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the association between the symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD), sleep quality, and indicators of burnout syndrome in teachers.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 330 teachers with an average age of 43 years. The Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the questionnaire to assess burnout syndrome - teachers' version were used for data collection. Simple and multiple logistic regression models were applied to analyze the independent variables at a 5% significance level.

RESULTS

Teachers with poor sleep quality, indicators of burnout syndrome, female sex, and impact on the domains of psychological exhaustion and guilt were, respectively, 1.91,1.92, 2.66, 1.97, and 2.60 times more likely to present at least one TMD symptom (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Teachers with indicators of burnout syndrome and impaired sleep quality were more likely to present with at least one TMD symptom.

Psychological distress and well-being: their association with temporomandibular disorder symptoms

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the associations between temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms, psychological distress, and well-being.

METHODS

A total of 372 university students were recruited and stratified into no TMD, TMD pain, TMJ sounds, and combined TMD groups. Psychological distress and well-being were assessed with the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and Scales of Psychological Well-being-18 (SPWB-18), respectively. Data were appraised with Kruskal-Wallis/Mann-Whitney U tests and logistic regression analysis (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Significant differences in anxiety, stress, and autonomy scores were observed among the four groups, and psychological distress was mostly negatively correlated to psychological well-being. Multivariate analyses revealed that anxiety was associated with TMD pain, TMJ sounds, and combined TMD, while autonomy was related to TMJ sounds.

CONCLUSION

Participants with TMD symptoms generally experienced more psychological distress and lower autonomy. Anxiety appeared to increase the likelihood of TMD pain and/or TMJ sounds.

Etiologic Factors of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review of Literature Containing Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) and Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) from 2018 to 2022

This study aims to conduct a systematic analysis of literature published between 1 January 2018 and 1 September 2022, exploring factors influencing the progression or development of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), diagnosed using the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) or Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD). Three electronic databases were reviewed to identify papers that examined TMD factors using DC/TMD or RDC/TMD. Inclusion criteria encompassed original research published in English between 1 January 2018 and 1 October 2022, online, and complete DC/TMD or RDC/TMD studies on human participants aged 18 or older. Two authors independently assessed the risk of bias using The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Analytical cross-sectional studies' Critical Appraisal Tool. Of 1478 articles, 11 were included. The studies revealed strong associations between TMD and factors such as female, poor sleep quality, depression, oral parafunction, anxiety, somatization, and anatomical features. However, variables such as education, living conditions, socioeconomic status, marital status, chronic pain, and stress did not exhibit statistically significant correlations. Based on the obtained data, it can be concluded that the causes of TMD are largely related to psychological factors, which supports the biopsychosocial theory of the disorder.

Short-Term Effects of 3D-Printed Occlusal Splints and Conventional Splints on Sleep Bruxism Activity: EMG-ECG Night Recordings of a Sample of Young Adults

(1) Background: This study aims to compare the effects of 3D-printed splints and conventional manufactured splints on sleep bruxism (SB) EMG activity. (2) Methods: Twenty-six patients (19 M, 7 F, 25.8 ± 2.6 years) were randomly allocated to a study group (3D splints) and a control group (conventional manufactured splints) and followed for a period of three months with night EMG-ECG recordings. Samples of the involved materials were analyzed for nanoindentation. The outcomes of interest considered were the overall SB index, the total amount of surface masseter muscle activity (sMMA), and general and SB-related phasic and tonic contractions. A statistical evaluation was performed with a confidence interval (CI) between 2.5% and 97.5%. (3) Results: Differences between groups with OAs were observed for general tonic contraction (p = 0.0009), while differences between recording times were observed for general phasic contractions (p = 0.002) and general tonic contractions (p = 0.00001). Differences between recording times were observed for the total amount of sMMA (p = 0.01), for general phasic contractions (p = 0.0001), and for general tonic contractions (p = 0.000009) during night recordings without OAs. (4) Conclusions: Three-dimensional splints seem to have a higher impact on SB-related electromyographic activity but not on the overall sleep bruxism index. The more regular surfaces offered by 3D splints could be related to phasic contraction stabilization.

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.

Association of stress, anxiety, and depression levels with sleep quality in patients with temporomandibular disorders

OBJECTIVE

To examine the psychological symptoms of TMD and their effects on sleep quality in patients with temporomandibular disorders.

METHODS

The study was carried out with 425 consecutive TMD patients who sought care at the oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic of a faculty of dentistry. Perceived Stress Scale-14, Beck Anxiety Scale, and Beck Depression Scale were used to evaluate the psychological state. Sleep quality was evaluated with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.

RESULTS

The mean sleep score of all participants was 6.52. As the level of anxiety and depression increased, the scores of both total sleep quality and sleep quality components increased significantly p < 0.01. On the other hand, those with poor sleep quality had significantly higher stress, anxiety, and depression levels than those with good sleep quality p < 0.01.

CONCLUSION

Negative emotional situations such as stress, anxiety, and depression seriously impair sleep quality in TMD patients.

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.

Relationship of Malocclusions with Disorders of the Temporomandibular Joint in Children of CALI-Colombia

OBJECTIVE

 The aim of this study was to determine the relationship of malocclusion with the presence and severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 A clinical examination was performed in 87 patients (from 4 to 14 years of age) who attended the dentistry clinics of Universidad del Valle.

RESULTS

 The 77 patients studied had malocclusions; 55 patients had TMD and 67.3% were female. The most frequent symptom of TMD was articular unilateral noise with 33.8%, followed by pain in at least one masticatory muscle with 26%. TMJ pain was observed in 24.7% of the patients. There was a statistically significant relationship between the presence and severity of TMD with type of dentition and transverse malocclusion, respectively.

CONCLUSION

 The presence of TMD in children with malocclusion presented in a high frequency. TMD depends on the type of dentition and its severity is dependent on transverse malocclusion.

Temporomandibular disorders among medical students in China: prevalence, biological and psychological risk factors

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and their associated biological and psychological factors in Chinese university students.

METHODS

A total of 754 students were included from Zunyi Medical University, each participant completed questionnaires and clinical examinations according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of TMD was 31.7% among medical students. Subjects with TMD had a high prevalence of bruxism, empty chewing, unilateral chewing, chewing gum, anterior teeth overbite, anterior teeth overjet, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. Moreover, sleep bruxism, empty chewing, unilateral chewing, anterior teeth overbite, depression, and anxiety were the strongest risk factors for TMD.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with TMD have a high prevalence of psychological distress and oral parafunctional habits. Except for the psychological factors associated with TMD, bruxism, abnormal chewing, and malocclusion also shared similar risks for TMD.

Subjective sleep quality and temporomandibular disorders: Systematic literature review and meta-analysis

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To assess the general subjective sleep quality in individuals with and without TMD, and its distribution among the TMD diagnostic groups.

METHODS

A systematic review search was performed in Pubmed/MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, Web of Science, SciELO, CINAHL and Cochrane Central as well as in the grey literature. Observational studies published since 1992 which used either the DC/TMD or RDC/TMD for TMD diagnosis and either the PSQI, SAQ or ESS questionnaires for sleep assessment were included. Articles selected for meta-analysis underwent quality, heterogeneity and publication bias evaluation.

RESULTS

A total of 1071 articles were found by online search, and 10 articles were added manually. For full-text reading, 138 papers were selected. Thirty-six articles were included in the final review, and 19 in the meta-analysis (PSQI only). Subjective sleep quality was shown to be associated with all RDC/TMD or DC/TMD Axis I diagnostic groups: muscle disorders, arthralgia/osteoarthritis/osteoarthrosis and disk displacements; with the highest association in the first two groups, and the lowest in the last one. A 4.45 times increased odds ratio of TMD prevalence was found for individuals who presented poor subjective sleep quality.

CONCLUSION

Subjective sleep quality should be considered in the management of TMD.

Association of psychological distress and widespread pain with sympatoms of temporomandibular disorders and self-reported bruxism in students

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of psychosocial distress and widespread pain with self‐reported symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and bruxism, in two cross‐sectional surveys in 2012 and 2016, and whether there are temporal changes in the magnitude of associations.

Materials and methods

The data were gathered from Finnish university students in 2012 and 2016. TMD symptoms were assessed with three validated questions and bruxism with one frequently used question. Psychosocial distress was assessed with the General Health Questionnaire‐12 (GHQ‐12), and widespread pain with questions of pain in the extremities, the neck or upper back, and lower back. The associations of GHQ‐12, widespread pain and background variables with TMD symptoms and bruxism were analyzed with chi‐square tests, t‐test and binary logistic regression models stratified by gender, and adjusted for age‐group, self‐reported general health/wellbeing and presence of widespread pain.

Results

Higher GHQ‐12 score and presence of widespread pain were significantly associated with TMD symptoms in both genders at both time points. The association of higher GHQ‐12 score with sleep bruxism and awake bruxism were inconsistent. In the adjusted model higher GHQ‐12 score and widespread pain were significantly related to TMD pain symptoms in both genders at both time points, and to bruxism in 2012. Between the two time points a greater variability in these associations was seen in men than in women.

Conclusions

Psychological distress and widespread pain are significant determinants in perceived TMD pain and bruxism among students. No significant temporal alterations were observed.

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 disorder subtypes, emotional distress, impaired sleep, and oral health-related quality of life in Asian patients

OBJECTIVES

This study determined the differences in emotional states, sleep and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) between patients with pain-related and intra-articular Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), and associated emotional symptoms with sleep and OHRQoL.

METHODS

Participants were recruited from a tertiary TMDs referral centre. The Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Oral Health Impact Profile-TMDs (OHIP-TMDs) were used to assess emotional states, sleep and Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), respectively. TMD-related and sociodemographic data were also gathered. Patients were divided into pain-related (PT), intra-articular (IT) and combined TMDs (CT) groups based on the Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA, Chi-square test, Pearson's correlation and logistic regression analysis with the significance level set at P < .05.

RESULTS

Data from 1079 participants with a mean age of 29.6 ± 14.2 years were appraised (93.3% response rate). The severity/prevalence of emotional distress, impaired sleep and OHRQoL of the PT/CT groups were higher than the IT group. Moderate-to-strong inter-relationships between emotional, sleep and OHRQoL variables were more explicit for participants with painful TMDs. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that painful TMDs were associated with higher stress and poorer OHRQoL with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.482 (95% CI 1.039-2.114) and 6.502 (95% CI 3.201-13.210), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Painful TMDs are associated with higher levels of emotional distress, sleep and OHRQoL impairments. Routine evaluation of the biopsychosocial distress, especially stress and life quality, is necessary for patients with painful TMDs.

Temporomandibular disorder severity and diagnostic groups: Their associations with sleep quality and impairments

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the impact of TMD severity on sleep quality and established the associations between TMD diagnostic groups/pain subtypes and sleep impairments.

METHODS

A total of 1151 patients from a tertiary Dental Hospital were screened for eligibility. Consenting subjects who met the inclusion criteria were directed to complete a general/health questionnaire, the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD) Symptom Questionnaire, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) at their intake visit. Patients who screened positive for TMDs with the FAI were subjected to a protocolized physical examination and TMD diagnostic groups/subtypes were subsequently derived based on the DC/TMD "diagnostic tree" and algorithms. Statistical analyses were conducted using non-parametric methods and logistic regression (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

The final sample consisted of 845 subjects with TMDs and 116 TMD-free controls. The mean age of the TMD and TMD-free subjects were 33.17 ± 13.55 and 31.66 ± 9.50 years. Subjects with severe and moderate TMDs had significantly greater global PSQI scores than those with mild and no TMDs (p < 0.001). Those with pain-related, intra-articular, and combined TMDs reported significantly poorer sleep quality than those with no TMDs (p < 0.001). Moreover, subjects with myalgia and myalgia plus arthralgia presented significantly greater sleep impairments than their counterparts with intra-articular disorders (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression indicated that pain-related (OR = 3.23; CI = 1.69-6.14) and intra-articular TMDs (OR = 1.91; CI = 1.15-3.16) were most related to poor sleep.

CONCLUSIONS

Sleep quality worsened with increasing TMD severity and the presence of painful and intra-articular TMDs increased the likelihood of poor sleep.

Evaluation of temporomandibular disorders, quality of life, and oral habits among dentistry students

Objective: To evaluate temporomandibular disorders (TMD), quality of life, and oral habits in dentistry students.Methods: The study was performed with 480 students (287 females, 193 males). The Fonseca Questionnaire, Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14), and Oral Behaviors Checklist (OBC) were used.Results: The mean scores of the fifth-year students from Fonseca TMD, OHIP-14, and OBC were statistically significantly higher than those of the students in other years of study. The mean Fonseca score of female students was higher than those of the males. There was a statistically significant difference regarding the OHIP-14 scores based on the Fonseca TMD scores. A statistically significant difference regarding OBC was present based on the Fonseca TMD scores.Conclusion: The prevalence of TMDs was higher among the senior dentistry students. Necessary measures should be taken in the dentistry educational system to raise students' quality of life, improve joint disorders, and eliminate current oral habits.

Impact of prolotherapy in temporomandibular joint disorder: a quality of life assessment

Chronic pain and functional impairment associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders (TMD) considerably reduce oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). In the present study we have assessed the influence of prolotherapy in patients with TMD by the subjective measurement of QoL using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14). Twenty-five patients diagnosed with TMD (mean (range) age 38 (18 - 70) years) were included. They had all undergone dextrose prolotherapy to the TMJ at regular time intervals (four times at intervals of two weeks) using the method suggested by Hemwall-Hackett. They were asked to answer the OHIP-14 questionnaire before and two years after prolotherapy. Seven domains of OHRQoL were rated on a 5-point Likert scale from 0 (never) to 4 (very often). Domain scores and total OHIP-14 scores were compared using inferential statistics (chi squared and Wilcoxon signed rank tests). Prolotherapy was effective over time, as all the domains' mean scores decreased considerably after treatment. The total mean score before prolotherapy was 21.20, which was extensively reduced to 13.08 after prolotherapy (p=0.001). There was statistically significant improvement in all domains, including functional limitation, physical pain, psychological discomfort, physical disability, psychological disability, social disability, and handicap (p≤0.005 in all cases). We concluded that prolotherapy has a promising role in the improvement of OHRQoL of patients with TMD, and its beneficial effects persist at least two years after treatment.

Women’s oral health-related quality of life as a risk factor for TMD symptoms. A case-control study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms and women's oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL).Methods: An observational case-control study was performed with 765 adult women aged 21.5 years on average. Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) assessed OHRQoL and determined the selection of cases and controls matched by age and marital status at a ratio of 1:4 (153 cases: 612 controls). American Academy of Orofacial Pain's self-explanatory questionnaire assessed the TMD symptoms. The TMD symptoms' impact on OHRQoL was analyzed, estimating the odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Of the women, 86.9% in the case group, and 69.6% in the control group presented some TMD symptoms (p< 0.05). Women with an impacted OHRQoL are 2.95 (95% CI:1.79-4.86) times more likely to report some TMD symptoms (p< 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Women with a negative impact on OHRQoL are more likely to report TMD symptoms.

Diagnostic accuracy of the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders for children aged 8-12 years

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Objective of this study was to determine whether the diagnostic accuracy of the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) is sufficient for use among schoolchildren aged 8-12 years.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study on diagnostic accuracy with calibrated examiners was conducted among 533 children of both sexes aged 8-12 years, with and without TMD symptoms, selected randomly from the Rhein-Neckar district. Self-reporting of non-dental facial pain was used as the reference standard, against which we calculated the following for the pain-related items of the DC/TMD (index test): sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios, diagnostic odds ratio, accuracy and 95% Wilson Score confidence intervals. We also calculated the area under the receiver-operating characteristic (AUROC) curve displaying sensitivity and specificity.

RESULTS

Our final sample consisted of 282 children, half of whom reported having facial pain and 3.2% reported sounds from the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). Despite high specificity (90.78%; 95% confidence interval (CI): [84.86%; 94.53%]), sensitivity of the adapted DC/TMD for pain on maximum jaw opening was poor (37.59%; 95% CI: [30.02%; 45.81%]). For pain on palpation, more similar values were recorded for sensitivity (74.47%; 95% CI: [66.69%; 80.95%]) and specificity (70.21%; 95% CI: [62.21%; 77.14%]). The diagnostic odds ratio was >1 for both examinations. The AUROC for pain on opening was 68.39% (95% CI: [62.62%; 74.16%]), and for pain on palpation, it was 74.63% (95% CI: [69.45%; 79.81%]), whereas the combination of both resulted to an AUROC of 74.09% (95% CI: [68.96%; 79.21%]). It was not possible to measure the diagnostic accuracy of the DC/TMD regarding TMJ sounds or jaw-opening limitations, as they occurred too rarely in our sample.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the diagnostic accuracy of the DC/TMD for TMD-related pain in children was lower than that recorded for adults in previous studies.

Assessment of mandibular kinematics values and its relevance for the diagnosis of temporomandibular joint disorders

Background/purpose

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are common conditions that involve the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), jaw muscles, or both, and can cause alteration in the mandibular kinematics. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between mandibular kinematics and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD) as a clinical tool for evaluation and diagnosis of these patients.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study based on the analysis of the clinical findings from patients’ charts was carried out, with a sample size of 476 patients. Statistical analysis was made with chi-square test for qualitative variables and student t-test for quantitative variables. Then, odds ratio with its confidence interval were calculated. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Most patients were female (80.7%) and between 16 and 25 years old. Disc displacement with reduction (DDwR) and subluxation were associated with increased kinematic parameters, while disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR) and retrodiscitis were associated with decreased kinematic values. A soft end feel was related to osteoarthritis (OA). Structural incompatibility was most prevalent in older patients.

Conclusion

Mandibular kinematic values are associated with specific temporomandibular joint disorders and could be considered as a useful clinical tool to perform the right diagnosis of TMJD.

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.

Sleep Health and Serious Psychological Distress: A Nationally Representative Study of the United States among White, Black, and Hispanic/Latinx Adults

PURPOSE

Prior studies investigating the relationship between sleep and serious psychological distress (SPD) have lacked racial/ethnic diversity and generalizability. We investigated associations between sleep and SPD among a large, nationally representative, and racially/ethnically diverse sample of US adults.

METHODS

We pooled cross-sectional data from the 2004 to 2017 National Health Interview Survey. Participants self-reported sleep duration and sleep disturbances (eg, trouble falling and staying asleep). SPD was defined as a Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6) score ≥13. Adjusting for sociodemographic, health behavior, and clinical characteristics, we used Poisson regression with robust variance to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of SPD for each sleep characteristic, overall and by race/ethnicity.

RESULTS

Among 316,840 participants, the mean age ± standard error was 46.9 ± 0.1 years, 52% were women, 75% were non-Hispanic (NH)-White, 16% NH-Black, and 9% Hispanic/Latinx. The prevalence of SPD was 3.4% for NH-Whites, 4.1% for NH-Blacks, and 4.5% for Hispanics/Latinxs. Participants with <7 hours versus 7-9 hours of sleep duration were more likely to have SPD, and the magnitude of the association was strongest among NH-Black participants (PR_NH-Blacks=3.50 [95% CI: 2.97-4.13], PR _{Hispanics/Latinx}=2.95 [2.42-3.61], and PR_NH-Whites=2.66 [2.44-2.89]). Positive associations between sleep disturbances and SPD were generally stronger among NH-Black and Hispanic/Latinx compared to NH-White adults.

CONCLUSION

Poor sleep health was positively associated with SPD, and the magnitude of the association was generally stronger among racial/ethnic minorities. Future investigations should prospectively focus on the determinants and health consequences of SPD attributable to objectively measured sleep across racial/ethnic groups.

Evaluation of temporomandibular disorder symptoms and oral health-related quality of life in adolescent orthodontic patients with different dental malocclusions

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders in adolescent orthodontic patients with different dental malocclusions and to assess the relationship between oral health-related quality of life.Methods: This study was carried out on 648 randomly selected individuals 14-19 years of age. Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD), Fonseca Questionnaire, and Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) forms were used.Results: TheGCPS,TMDPain,Fonseca,OHIP-14, PHQ-9, GAD-7,OBC,andPHQ-15 mean scores of female participants were statistically significantly higher than males (p < 0.05).There was a significant difference among the malocclusion groups in terms of their mean scores in GCPS, Fonseca, and OHIP-14 (p < 0.05).The age values and JFLS, TMD Pain, Fonseca, OHIP-14, PHQ-9, GAD-7, and PHQ-15 were statistically significant correlations in the positive direction.Conclusion: The DC/TMD form allows both a physical assessment of Axis I and II that examines psychosocial status and pain-related disorders and a more comprehensive assessment. The mean OHIP-14 and Fonseca questionnaire scores of Class III groups were found to be significantly higher.

Preclinical Signs of a Temporomandibular Disorder in Female Patients With Episodic Cervicogenic Headache Versus Asymptomatic Controls: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd Edition, accepted "headache attributed to temporomandibular disorders" as a valid headache. The neurophysiologic interplay between cervical structures and the temporomandibular joint, however, might also suggest that a temporomandibular disorder could develop in patients with cervicogenic headache.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the presence of preclinical temporomandibular signs between female patients with episodic cervicogenic headache and a control group.

DESIGN

Case-controlled cross-sectional design.

SETTING

Institutional setting: Hasselt University.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-two women (mean age ± SD: 20.7 ± 2.5 years) with episodic cervicogenic headache, without temporomandibular signs and 22 matched (gender, age, level of education, occupation) asymptomatic controls (21 ± 2.3 years).

METHODS

(Un)assisted temporomandibular range of motion, pressure pain thresholds, painful palpations were examined and the level of perceived stress was measured.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Temporomandibular range of motion (mm), pressure pain thresholds (kPa/cm²), painful palpations (yes/no), and level of perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale).

RESULTS

Maximal mouth-opening was significantly smaller in the headache group (P <.05; effect size [ES] -0.45). Palpation of the masseter resulted in significantly more positive pain responses in the headache group at the left (P = .009; ES ∞) and right (P = .002;ES 17.5) origin, left (P = .004; ES 14.54) and right (P = .03; ES 5.71) body and left (P < .001; ES 12) insertion. Significantly lower pressure pain thresholds on the left and right anterior (P = .03; ES -0.33 resp. P = .02; ES -0.35), central (P = .003; ES 1.02 resp. P = .02; ES 0.79) and right posterior (P = .03; ES 0.62) temporalis and right tibialis anterior (P = .03; ES -0.33) were measured in the headache group. The level of perceived stress was significantly higher (P = .02) in the headache group.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with episodic cervicogenic headache present with signs of a preclinical temporomandibular disorder and sensitization. The smaller range of motion, lower pressure pain thresholds, and higher levels of stress accentuate the multidimensionality of the problem.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

A questionnaire-based study of sleep-wake patterns and sleep quality in a TMJ and orofacial pain clinic

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relationships among sleep quality, perceived pain, and psychological distress among patients with TMJ and orofacial pain.

METHODS

The authors examined 3276 patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) who visited the Orofacial Pain Clinic at Yonsei University College of Dentistry. The authors conducted a survey using the sleep-quality questionnaire and classified TMD patients into two groups based on Diagnostic Criteria for TMD. For statistical analysis, the authors calculated the correlations between pain intensity as measured using a numeric rating scale (NRS) and various factors.

RESULTS

The statistical analysis revealed correlations between pain intensity on the NRS and some of the factors in the sleep questionnaire. The pain intensity increased with age and for lower sleep efficiency (both p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These results imply that clinicians treating patients with orofacial pain should examine their sleep-wake patterns and sleep quality.

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.