Prevalence of the Signs and Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders among Dental Students in Navi Mumbai

Ab s t r Ac t Aim and objective: To determine the prevalence of the signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) among dental students in Navi Mumbai. Materials and methods: A representative population-based sample of 500 dental students was evaluated for the signs and symptoms of TMD by means of a validated questionnaire. A detailed case history was taken, and the examination of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), mandibular movements, muscles and occlusion was done for each participant. Results: The signs and symptoms of TMD are frequent among dental students. Out of 500 students, who filled the questionnaire and underwent examination, 250 were females and 250 were males. In total, 22% of the study population had at least one symptom of TMD. In total, 51% of the study population had at least one sign of TMD. The prevalence of the signs and symptom of TMD was significantly higher in females than in males. Conclusion: The study showed that about 29% of the study population had at least one sign without any symptoms of TMD. This highlights the presence of subclinical cases that exist in the population that can be intervened to prevent their progression into TMD. Clinical significance: Extra emphasis should be given on the determination of the predisposing, initiating and causative factors of TMD along with the examination. Prevention and treatment at an early stage will prevent the progression of TMD.