Comparison of Temporomandibular Disorders in Iranian Dental and Nondental Students

Abstract

The aim of this study was to define the prevalence and severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) among Iranian dental and nondental students who attended Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. The samples consisted of 200 subjects, 100 dental and 100 nondental students (equal distribution between males and females). Subjects ages ranged from 18 to 30 years (24.07 ± 2.93). A functional evaluation was performed using the Helkimo dysfunction index (Di). Data were evaluated by the Chi-square test. Among the total study population, 71% showed some degree of dysfunction. Prevalence ratio in dental students was 80%, while in nondental students was 62% (p > 0.05, odds ratio = 0.679). With respect to gender, women (80%) were more affected than men (62%). A significant relationship was found between gender and the occurrence of TMD (p > 0.05). A high prevalence of signs of TMD in Iranian university students was seen which was greater in dental students and women. The results of this study showed that the prevalence of TMD among dental students and women was significantly higher than nondental students and men. These findings might be due to poor postural style or emotional stress during dental practice.