Assessment of the Prevalence of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Their Impact on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life
Abstract
Background: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are among the most common musculoskeletal conditions affecting the stomatognathic system and are frequently associated with pain, restricted mandibular movements, joint sounds, and functional impairment. These conditions may adversely influence oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) by affecting mastication, speech, psychological well-being, and daily activities. However, limited information is available regarding the prevalence of TMD and its impact on OHRQoL among dental patients in North India. Aim: To determine the prevalence of temporomandibular joint disorders among dental patients in North India and to examine their impact on oral health-related quality of life. Material and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 150 dental patients aged 18 years and above attending a tertiary care dental institution in North India. Participants were recruited using a convenience sampling technique after obtaining written informed consent. TMD was assessed using the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) , while oral health-related quality of life was evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 . Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, independent samples t -test, and one-way ANOVA were applied where appropriate. A p -value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among the 150 participants, 54 (36.0%) were diagnosed with TMD. Females constituted 52.0% of the study population, while 45.3% of participants belonged to the 18–35 years age group. Significant associations were observed between TMD-related pain, headache, jaw joint dysfunction, and most OHIP-14 domains ( p <0.05). Participants with TMD reported greater painful aching in the mouth, discomfort while eating, emotional distress, interruption of meals, difficulty relaxing, embarrassment, irritability, and reduced life satisfaction. The strongest associations were observed for painful aching in the mouth , discomfort while eating , and feeling tense ( p <0.001). Conclusion: Temporomandibular joint disorders were prevalent among dental patients and had a significant negative impact on oral health-related quality of life. Pain, headache, and jaw joint dysfunction were associated with considerable functional, psychological, and social impairment. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management of TMD may improve patient outcomes and quality of life.