Prevalence of Temporomandibular Disorder Symptoms and Depressive Symptoms among Undergraduate Dental Students: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are common musculoskeletal conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints, masticatory muscles, and associated structures. Their etiology is multifactorial, involving biological, behavioural, and psychological factors. Undergraduate dental students are frequently exposed to academic and clinical stress, which may contribute to the occurrence of TMD symptoms and depressive symptoms. Assessing the prevalence of these conditions is important for promoting early identification and preventive interventions. Aim: To assess the prevalence of temporomandibular disorder symptoms and depressive symptoms among undergraduate dental students. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 292 undergraduate Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students and interns at Yogita Dental College and Hospital, Khed, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, India. Data were collected using a structured Google Forms questionnaire comprising demographic details, the validated TMD Pain Screener, and the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Responses were exported to Microsoft Excel and summarized using descriptive statistics. The findings were presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: Of the 292 participants, 81.8% were females and 18.2% were males. Third-year students constituted the largest group (36.0%). Jaw or temple pain during the previous 30 days was reported by 28.1% of participants, while 14.0% experienced jaw pain or stiffness on awakening. Pain during chewing hard food, mouth opening, and parafunctional jaw habits was reported by 15.1%, 20.2%, and 20.9% of participants, respectively. Responses to the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale demonstrated varying levels of depressive symptoms, with fatigue, sleep disturbance, irritability, and restlessness being the most commonly reported complaints. Conclusion: A considerable proportion of undergraduate dental students reported symptoms suggestive of temporomandibular disorders along with depressive symptoms. Routine screening, student wellness initiatives, stress management programs, and early clinical evaluation may facilitate timely identification and improve both temporomandibular and psychological health among dental students.