Hormonal fluctuations intensify temporomandibular disorder pain without impairing masticatory function.

PURPOSE: The influence of hormonal fluctuations on pain and mastication was evaluated in patients with painful temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Fifty women were assigned to menstrual cycle and oral contraceptive groups (n = 25). Their TMD was diagnosed by Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. Pain levels, maximum oclusal force (MOF), and masticatory performance (MP) were measured in all menstrual cycle phases.

RESULTS

A lower pain level was observed in the ovulatory phase when compared to menstrual and luteal phases (P = .02). No differences were found regarding MOF (P = .20) or MP (P = .94).

CONCLUSIONS

Hormonal fluctuations intensify pain in women with symptomatic TMD without impairing mastication.