Abstract
Background
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a combination of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMJ pain is one of the most prevalent symptoms of TMD. Psychosocial variables, including stress, anxiety, and depression, play a significant role in the onset and progression of TMD. These psychological conditions are often interrelated in individuals with TMD.
Methods
The PubMed database was used to search for studies on the etiology, symptoms, and biomarkers of TMJ pain. Additionally, relevant clinical studies examining the associations between TMD and mental health, with emphasis on anxiety, stress, and mood disorders, were reviewed. Studies exploring sex differences and sleep disturbances in TMD populations were also included.
Results
The studies reviewed indicate significant associations between TMD and psychological variables such as anxiety, stress, and reduced sleep quality. The severity and intensity of pain in TMD patients are closely associated with anxiety symptoms. Deterioration of sleep quality occurs in a substantial proportion of TMD patients. Furthermore, this process is sex dependent, with a higher prevalence of TMD observed among females.
Practical Implications
This review summarized TMD biomarkers and the impact of TMD on sleep, stress, anxiety, and depression, which, in turn, exacerbate the severity of the disorder. The strong association between TMD and psychological health underscores the need to treat TMD not solely as a dental or musculoskeletal condition. Customized interdisciplinary treatment approaches that address both physiological and psychological components should be considered for TMD patients to improve overall health outcomes.