Evaluation of factors associated with the temporomandibular joint dysfunction in university students

Abstract Background Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) is a multifactorial and complex problem. The underlying causes of the symptoms and related factors of TMD should be specifically identified. This study aimed to examine factors in the relationship between TMD severity and compare cases regarding TMD severity in university students. Methods The participants were evaluated with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for jaw and neck pain severity. TMD severity was assessed with the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), sleep quality with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), oral habits with the Oral Behavior Checklist (OBC), and depression and anxiety status with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). In addition, mandibular movements were also evaluated. Results A total of 51 individuals (39 female, 12 male; mean age: 21.9 ± 3.8) were included in the study. There was a positive moderate correlation between FAI and OBC ( r = 0.560, p < 0.01). PSQI ( r = 0,373), VAS-jaw pain ( r = 0,374, p < 0.05), VAS-neck pain ( r = 0,437, p < 0.05) and HADS-D ( r = 0,392, p < 0.05) were moderately associated with FAI. There was also a low correlation between FAI and HADS-A ( r = 0.346, p < 0.05). A statistically significant predictive correlation was found between VAS-Neck pain and OBC with FAI ( p < 0.05). Conclusions This study's results show that jaw and neck pain, sleep habits, oral habits, and anxiety-depression levels are associated with TMD severity. This association highlights the need to consider these factors in assessing and treating TMD.