Frequency of Temporomandibular Disorder and Its Association With Body Posture in Adolescents and Children: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are characterized by pain and functional impairment of the temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscles. Although postural factors have been increasingly implicated, evidence supporting an association between posture and TMD in children and adolescents is limited.

AIM: To determine the frequency of TMD in children and adolescents and evaluate its association with body posture, musculoskeletal symptoms, including back and neck pain, and mandibular function.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in private schools, among children aged 10-17 years. TMD was assessed using the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD). Posture was evaluated using the BackPEI-CA questionnaire, and mandibular function was assessed using the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS-20).

RESULTS

The study enrolled 83 participants (mean age: 13.34 ± 2.27 years), with equal gender distribution. TMD was identified in 28.9% of the sample. Although 87.5% of TMD-positive participants exhibited inadequate posture, the association was not statistically significant (p = 0.714). TMD-positive individuals reported notable functional impairments in activities, including chewing, yawning, swallowing, and expressing emotions.

CONCLUSION

TMD was observed in 28.9% of children and adolescents and was associated with significant mandibular functional impairment. However, no statistically significant association was identified between body posture and TMD in this cohort.