Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Mental Health: Unleashing the Veiled Bond

Around 60-70% of the general population is likely to experience at least one symptom of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) at some point in their lives, yet only about 5% pursue treatment. TMDs are a prevalent cause of orofacial pain, impacting a considerable portion of the population. However, their diagnosis and treatment continue to pose challenges. Although evidence links TMDs to worsening mental health conditions, there is limited research on how TMD patients perceive the impact of these disorders on their mental well-being. As a result, individuals with TMD experience both physical and psychological complications, along with reduced social participation. Individuals experiencing chronic pain are at a higher risk of developing mood disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, which can further intensify pain, lead to emotional allodynia, and cause neuroanatomical changes. In this article, we aim to explore the increasing prevalence of TMD and how they can be interlinked with the current mental health disorders. A bidirectional mode of treatment incorporated by oral physicians can effectively enhance treatment outcomes. Our review highlights the necessity of healthcare intervention programs to assist individuals experiencing chronic TMD pain. It also emphasizes the significance of healthcare providers adopting a multimodal treatment strategy to address both TMD and associated mental health conditions.