Clinical features of temporomandibular disorders among Jordanian children

ABSTRACT

This study was done to record the prevalence of signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders [TMD] among Jordanian children, and to compare the results with those from other groups. The data obtained from a questionnaire and physical examination of signs and symptoms of TMD on 2157 randomly selected children who attended to the screening, dental clinics in three hospitals located indifferent geographic, areas in Jordan. The sample was divided into three groups, 527 [251 males, 276 females] with primary, 1076 [522 males, 554 females] with mixed and 554 [272 males. 282 females] with permanent dentition.; The prevalence of TMD signs was found to be [19.1%] and the most common sign of TMD was joint sounds [12.4%]. Restricted mouth opening [7.0%] was the second most common sign. Muscle and temporomandibular joint [TMJ] pain as well as deviation upon Jaw opening appeared infrequently. TMJ sounds were significantly increasing with age [P<0,001]. TMD symptoms as reported by the parents were evident in [24.3%] of the returned questionnaires [1338]. The most common symptoms were pain on chewing [12.4%]] and headache [11.9%]. The incidence of headache was found increasing from primary to permanent dentition [P<0-001]. No sex difference in the prevalence of any symptom was reported. The data obtained from the physical examination and questionnaire identified a high prevalence of signs and symptoms of TMD in Jordanian children. It was concluded that the importance of a screening examination for symptoms and signs of TMD should not be overlooked in the clinical assessment of the pediatric patients