Symptoms Of Craniomandibular Dysfunction Research Articles

Relationship between Oral Parafunctions and Signs and Symptoms of Craniomandibular Dysfunction in Children with Cleft Lip and Palate

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of oral parafunctions with the presence of signs and symptoms of craniomandibular disorder in children with cleft lip and palate (CLP). A cross-sectional study was performed in which one hundred and eighty-eight children with CLP and absence of associated syndromes or malformations were investigated. During clinical examination, the presence of wear facets and dental occlusion were observed and palpation was performed in the temporomandibular joint region (TMJ) and orofacial musculature . The children and their guardians were interviewed regarding the presence of oral parafunctional habits (bruxism, the act of biting the lips and/or cheeks, nail biting, sucking of fingers and pacifiers) and signs and symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction (headache, ear and/or neckache, tiredness or crack in the TMJ during mouth opening and chewing movements). The data were analyzed by means of absolute and relative frequency measurements, and bivariate analysis using Pearson’s chi-square test and likelihood ratio test were performed, considering the significance level of 5%. A higher prevalence of cleft lip and palate type (76.0%) and the presence of malocclusion (61.7%) was observed, highlighting the anterior crossbite (58.7%) and midline deviation (48.9%). There was a higher occurrence of teeth grinding (40.4%), onychophagy (28.7%) and biting lips and/or cheeks (28.7%). Onychophagia was associated with headache (p <0.05) and with pain or cracking during mouth opening (p <0.05). It was concluded that parafunctional oral habits may be associated with signs and symptoms of craniomandibular disorder in children with cleft lip and palate.Keywords: Craniomandibular Disorders. Nail Biting. Bruxism. Maxillofacial Abnormalities. Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a associação de parafunções orais com sinais e sintomas da disfunção craniomandibular em crianças com fissuras labiopalatinas (FLP). Um estudo transversal foi realizado, no qual cento e oitenta e oito crianças com FLP e ausência de síndromes ou malformações associadas, foram investigadas. Durante exame clínico, a presença de facetas de desgaste e a oclusão dentária foram observadas e foi realizada a palpação na região da articulação temporomandibular (ATM) e musculatura orofacial. As crianças e seus responsáveis foram entrevistados com relação à presença de hábitos orais parafuncionais (bruxismo, ato de morder os lábios e/ou bochechas, onicofagia, sucção de dedos e de chupeta) e sinais e sintomas de disfunção craniomandibular (cefaléia, ouvido, dor, cansaço ou estalo na ATM durante movimentos de abertura bucal e de mastigação). Os dados foram analisados por meio de medidas de frequência absoluta e relativa e a análise bivariada foi realizada por meio dos testes do Qui-quadrado de Pearson (χ2) e a Razão de verossimilhança, considerando o nível de significância de 5%. Uma maior prevalência das fissuras envolvendo lábio e palato (76,0%) e presença de maloclusão (61,7%) foi observada, com destaque para mordida cruzada anterior (58,7%) e desvio de linha média (48,9%). Houve uma maior ocorrência do ato de ranger os dentes (40,4%), da onicofagia (28,7%) e do hábito de morder lábios e/ou bochechas (28,7%). A onicofagia foi associada à cefaléia (p<0,05) e à dor ou estalo durante abertura bucal (p<0,05). Conclui-se que hábitos orais parafuncionais podem estar associados a presença de sinais e sintomas da disfunção craniomandibular em crianças com FLP.Palavras-chave: Transtornos Craniomandibulares. Hábito de Roer Unhas. Bruxismo. Anormalidades Maxilofaciais.

Signs and symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction in a population of Spanish children

The craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) is a pathology that can appear at early ages. In a sample of 36 childrenresiding in Madrid (Spain), of both sexes, with ages between 7 and 13 years, the prevalence of signs and symptomsof CMD was analyzed. For that purpose, we did a dental and muscular examination, together with temporomandibularjoints, functional and occlusal examination, and completed with a specific questionnaire. The results revealedthat 100% showed some sign or sympthom of CMD. 77,8% of the pacients presented 3 or more CMD signs.The most prevalent were painful muscle palpation (94,4%), together with sliding anteriorly (91,7%), painful jointpalpation (69,4%), wear facets in permanent teeth (41,7%) and altered opening and closing trayectory (38,9%). Onthe other hand, only 38,9% showed any CMD symptom. The most prevalent symptoms were night teeth grinding(27,8%), followed by tooth sensitivity (19,4%) and fullness in the ears (16,7%). We conclude that in our sample,25% presented mild CMD (less that 3 signs or symptoms), 58,3% presented moderate CMD (from 3 to 6 signs orsymptoms) and 16,7% showed severe CMD (more than 6 symptoms). Nevertheless, it’s important to remark thatnone of these pacients came seeking treatment for his CMD and these symptoms were refered only when beingasked. Hence the importance of a comprehensive clinic history to precociously diagnose this pathology and havethe ability to prevent its progression.

Evaluation of Helkimo anamnestic and dysfunction index in identical twins

Introduction: In 1974 Marti Helkimo designed special questionnaires which were used for entering adequate contemporary data collected by medical history, analyzing the functions of the orofacial system and analyzing occlusion. Data were evaluated numerically with 0, 1 or 5, depending on the severity of the relevant findings and severity of clinical signs or symptoms of dysfunction. Objective: The aim of the research was to establish and evaluate specially designed Helkimos anamnestic and dysfunction index in monozygotic twins. Materials and Methods: A longitudinal prospective study was carried out on a randomized sample of 30 pairs of twins, 20 to 40 years old, and of both sexes. Dedicated design of the questionnaire made it possible to calculate the Helkimos anamnestic index (Ai), based on subjective feeling and positive or negative answers of subjects about the state of their masticatory apparatus. The clinical dysfunction index (Di) represents objective functional analysis of structural and functional disorders of the orofacial complex, because it monitors multiple parameters. Kinematics of the lower jaw, conditions and limited function of the temporomandibular joints, the presence or absence of painful sensations during mandible movements during palpation of the joints and masticatory muscles, and the overall quantification of the incidence of craniomandibular dysfunction were all monitored and evaluated. The study was conducted in accordance with the local and international laws and ethical standards. Results: Medical records of 47 (78.3%) twins did not present the signs and symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction, i.e., Ai = 0. Twelve respondents were aware of the existence of mild signs of craniomandibular disorders (CMD). Acute and expressed craniomandibular disorder was identified in one of the twins Ai II 1 (1.7%). By evaluating and analyzing the results obtained using Helkimo analysis, positive dysfunction index (Di> 0), or certain signs and symptoms of impaired function of TMJ were established in 23 twins (38.3%), while the index dysfunction equal to 0 (dI = 0) was found in 37 (61.7%) twins. Spearman's correlation (0.728) demonstrates there is a coefficient of interdependence and mutual association between anamnestic index (Ai) and the dysfunction index (Di), with statistic significance at 1% (p = 0.000). Conclusion: This comparative statistical analysis showed there is a correlation between anamnestic index (Ai) and clinical dysfunction index (Di) by Helkimo et al.

Symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction in professional orchestra musicians

Up to 80% of professional musicians are affected by playing-related musculoskeletal disorders, but data regarding the frequency of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) in professional orchestra musicians is scarce. To evaluate the frequency of CMD and its relation to musculoskeletal pain in various body regions. A questionnaire-based survey approach assessing CMD symptoms and musculoskeletal pain in professional orchestra players was adopted. Relative prevalence rates and prevalence ratios for different instrument groups were estimated. A total of 408 musicians completed the questionnaire (response rate 57%). Playing-related pain in the teeth or jaw was reported by 19-47% of musicians and TMJ pain by 15-34%, depending on the instrument group. Current pain in the face indicating a painful CMD was reported in 6-10% and related symptoms such as teeth grinding in 25-34%, jaw clenching in 33-42% and jaw locking in 11-18% of musicians. Females were 2.4 times (95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.49-3.84) more likely to report having had orofacial pain within the last month. Musicians reporting orofacial pain within the last month were 4.8 times (95% CI: 2.83-8.02) more likely to report pain in the neck and 2.5-3.8 times (P < 0.05) more likely to report pain in other body regions, including shoulders, right wrist, left fingers and the thoracic and lumbar spine. Symptoms suggesting CMD were common in this study of professional orchestra musicians and were associated with pain in the neck, shoulder and hands. There is a need to enhance awareness of CMD to optimize early medical diagnosis and treatment.

Occlusal splints in reversible occlusal therapy of craniomandibular dysfunction

Craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) is a set of structural and functional disorders of different etiology that affects temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and orofacial muscles. The most common etiologic factors are psychogenic, occlusal, trauma and congenital anomalies of craniofacial structures. About 75% of the examined population have mild symptoms of CMD while 3-4% have more severe symptoms which require medical attention. The main symptoms why people seek for medical attention are: facial pain which increases with chewing and irradiates in surrounding areas and pain in TMJ which irradiates in the ear canal, temporal area or neck. Painful restriction of mandible during mouth opening and eccentric movements is frequent as well as mandible deviation or deflection. Sound effects in TMJ such as popping or clicking during mouth opening are common. Initial and least invasive therapeutic procedure is reversible occlusal therapy using splints. There are two main types of occlusal splints: stabilization and relaxation. First type of splints works on condyle stabilization in orthopedically stable position; it is superoanterior condylar position in articular fossa with position of intercondylar discs between condyle and articular fossa when working cusps of the antagonists are in maximal contact with the splint. Another type of splint causes disocclussion of posterior teeth and eliminates negative effects of occlusal interference in the intercuspal position or during eccentric mandibular movements. During therapy, occlusal splint temporarily changes occlusal relationships as well as relations within TMJ, causing reduction of CMD symptoms. The best therapeutic effect for reduction of CMD symptoms is achieved by combination of physical therapy and medication.

Neuromuscular Orthotics in the Treatment of Craniomandibular Dysfunction and the Effects on Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Study

The purpose of this pilot study was to identify, measure and document an effect on the subjective multiple sclerosis symptoms and compare it to any objective data changes in the neuromuscular system of the head and neck, following the correction of the jaw position using a neuromuscular orthotic. The hope is to provide clinical evidence of improvement in the disease long-term without relying on the subjective evidence of remissions and exacerbations reported by the patient. The evidence found in the current pilot study measured improvement of head position, jaw position, jaw function, and airway in the neuromuscular bite position, which correlated with the improvement of subjective symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction and multiple sclerosis. Studies show that the bite affects blood flow in the brain, which may explain the improvement of the patients in the current study.

Professional Musicians with Craniomandibular Dysfunctions Treated with Oral Splints

Craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) symptoms occur frequently in violin/viola and wind players and can be associated with pain in the neck, shoulders and arm. In the current study, the effect of oral splint treatment of CMD on reducing pain and symptoms especially in these areas was investigated. Thirty (30) musicians undergoing CMD treatment with oral splints participated in this study. They completed a questionnaire that addressed CMD symptoms, localization of pain, and subjective changes in symptoms. Pain in the shoulder and/or upper extremity was the most frequent symptom reported by 83% of subjects, followed by neck pain (80%) and pain in the teeth/TMJ regions (63%). Treatment with oral splints contributed to a significant decrease in neck pain in 91%, teeth/TMJ pain in 83%, and shoulder and upper extremity pain in 76% of the musicians. Eighty percent (80%) of the patients reported improvement of their predominant symptoms. CMD can be a potential cause for pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper extremities of musicians. It is paramount that musicians with musculoskeletal problems be examined for CMD symptoms. Treatment with oral splints seems to be valuable. Further prospective, randomized controlled studies are necessary to confirm efficacy of oral splint treatment in CMD-associated pain and problems in the neck, shoulder, and the upper extremities in musicians.

The Importance of Temporomandibular Function for Patient Satisfaction following Orthognathic Surgery

From the patient's point of view, the main reasons for undertaking orthognathic surgical treatment are esthetic improvements in dentofacial appearance. The aim of this study was to analyze various factors that influence patient satisfaction regarding treatment results. A total of 102 (f = 67, m = 35) patients were examined after an average follow-up of 47 months. The average age at surgical intervention was 24.3 years. We evaluated the answers to a patient-satisfaction questionnaire, the Helkimo Index findings, nerve function parameters, and the frequency of intra- and post-operative complications. 91% of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the result. Answers to the questionnaire revealed that 80 (79%) patients would undergo treatment again, and 22 (21%) patients would not. There were no significant differences between the two groups concerning age, gender, type of surgical intervention, diagnosis, nerve function and complications. Statistically-significant differences were found in the Helkimo Index D 0 - D III, and pain reported in joints and movements (chi(2)-test, p < 0.05). We demonstrate that treatment results were influenced by the craniomandibular functional status. More pronounced symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction correlated with lower patient satisfaction.

Craniomandibular Dysfunction and Violin Playing: Prevalence and the Influence of Oral Splints on Head and Neck Muscles in Violinists

Previous studies have shown a significant higher prevalence of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) in violin players compared with controls. CMD is related to increased muscular load in the muscles of mastication, the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles, which can possibly predispose to overuse syndromes. To examine whether CMD can also cause overuse syndromes in violinists, we investigated a group of 31 violinists by questionnaire, mandibular tracking, and a clinical examination to elicit overuse and CMD symptoms. The influence of CMD on muscular tension during violin playing was assessed with surface EMG; this was performed twice on each violinist, once with and once without an occlusal splint, in order to work out the effect of CMD on the muscular load. CMD could be diagnosed in 74% of the investigated violinists. The occlusal splints significantly decreased the load in the masseter, temporalis, trapezius, and sternocleidomastoid muscles during musical performance. Occlusal splints appear to decrease the muscular load in asymptomatic violinists as well, suggesting a possible preventive and therapeutic role in overuse symptoms in the setting of preexisting CMD.

The prevalence of craniomandibular disorders in the military population of the Republic of Serbia

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) in the military personnel of the Republic of Serbia, as well as the distribution of sings and symptoms of CMD in this population group. The epidemiological investigation included 284 male persons between 18 - 25 years of age. The sample consisted of Military Academy students, and soldiers from different regions of the Republic of Serbia. A questionnaire was designed using Helkimo's clinical dysfunction index and sings and symptoms of CMD were evaluated, namely the anamnestic index (Ai) and the dysfunction index (Di). According to the anamnestic dysfunction index (Ai), 85% of persons among the examined group presented without any symptoms of CMD (Ai = 0), 14% had mild symptoms (Ai =1) and 1% had severe symptoms of CMD (Ai = 5). Functional analysis of the orofacial system in the examined group (evaluation of dysfunction index - Di) revealed, however, that 70% of solders had at least one sign of CMD, precisely a dysfunction index Di > 0. The analysis of signs and symptoms of CMD revealed that disturbances in mandibular kinematics were the most prevalent sign of CMD in this population group, which was confirmed in 56% of examined persons. Disturbed functions of temporomandibular (TM) joints (click, and reciprocal click, deviation and deflection during mandibular opening) were established in 31% of examined persons, and sensitivity of TM joints and masticatory muscles during palpation in 4% of examined persons. Pain during mandibular movements was established only in 1% of examined persons. The results of this investigation point to significant prevalence of craniomandibular disorders in the examined population group. The incidence of TMJ and masticatory muscle pain in 4% of examined persons and of pain during mandibular movements only in 1% of examined persons, points to presence of mild or initial types of CMD in this population group.

Multifactorial analysis of the aetiology of craniomandibular dysfunction in children.

It is generally accepted that the aetiology of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) is multifactorial. Different types of malocclusion, oral parafunctions especially bruxism, trauma of the mandible or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and emotional stress are known aetiologic factors. Research has been conducted into the relationship between each of these aetiologic factors and the signs and symptoms of CMD. However, such an approach does not control for the simultaneous effect of other factors responsible for the development of the dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of each aetiologic factor on the signs and symptoms of CMD in children, controlling for the effect of all other known factors by means of a multifactorial analysis. A sample of 314 children, aged 6-8 years, was examined clinically for signs of CMD and morphologic and functional malocclusion. Symptoms of CMD and oral parafunctions were recorded by the same investigator in an interview. Emotional stress was measured through urinary catecholamines including epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine, detected in a 24-h urine sample, using high performance liquid chromatography. A questionnaire was distributed to the parents to collect information regarding socioeconomic factors and the history of dentofacial injuries. A logistic multiple regression was carried out to estimate the partial effect of each aetiologic factor. A 95% probability level was used. Posterior crossbite with lateral shift significantly affected the probability of child developing deviation of the mandible on opening. Similarly, posterior crossbite and epinephrine had a significant impact on TMJ tenderness, overjet had an effect on clicking, clenching and biting of objects had an effect on muscle tenderness, and lip/cheek biting influenced dysfunctional opening. Of the symptoms reported, pain on wide opening was affected significantly by lip/cheek biting. On the basis of these results, it can be suggested that parafunctional and some structural and psychological factors may increase the probability of the child developing the signs and symptoms of CMD.

Craniomandibular status and function in patients with habitual snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea after nocturnal treatment with a mandibular advancement splint: a 2-year follow-up.

The aim of the investigation was to evaluate the status and function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory system in patients with habitual snoring and obstructive apnoea after 2 years nocturnal treatment with a mandibular advancement splint. Thirty-two patients participated in the study, ranging from 43.0 to 79.8 years of age (mean 54.4 years, SD 8.78) at the start of treatment. All patients had been referred from the ENT department for treatment with a mandibular advancement splint. The acrylic splint advanced the mandible 50-70 per cent of maximal protrusion, opened 5 mm vertically, and was used 6-8 hours per night and 5-7 nights per week. Overjet, overbite, and molar relationship were measured on dental casts. The patients were asked to answer a questionnaire concerning symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD). They were also clinically examined in a standardized manner, including registration of range of mandibular movements, TMJ sounds, pain on movement, and palpatory tenderness of the TMJ and the masticatory muscles. None of the patients showed more than five symptoms of dysfunction either at the start of or after 2 years of treatment. A decrease in the frequency of headache was found for nine of those 18 patients that reported headache (P = 0.004). A minor, but significant decrease in overjet and overbite was found and the molar relationship was also changed. It was concluded that 2 years' treatment with a mandibular advancement splint had no adverse effects on the craniomandibular status and function, but the observed occlusal changes requires further evaluation.

Odontologic survey of referred patients with symptoms allegedly caused by electricity or visual display units

Twenty-eight consecutive patients with symptoms allegedly caused by electricity or visual display units were odontologically investigated according to a specially designed registration form including an anamnestic interview and a clinical protocol. The most common oral and general symptoms reported were burning mouth, craniomandibular dysfunction symptoms, skin complaints, and fatigue. Oral symptoms such as craniomandibular dysfunction and general symptoms such as eye complaints and dizziness scored highest on a visual analog scale regarding mean symptom intensity. The patients reported various numbers of medical diagnoses, such as allergic rhinitis or asthma and hypothyroidism. Various dental diseases were found; the most common were temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscle dysfunctions, lesions in the oral mucosa, and periodontal diseases. Urinary-Hg (U-Hg) analysis showed a mean U-Hg concentration of 8.5 nmol Hg/L urine, and none of the patients exceeded the limit of 50 nmol Hg/L urine. The U-Hg concentration was positively correlated with the number of amalgam fillings (P < 0.01) and craniomandibular disorders (P < 0.05). No or low secretion of the minor mucous glands was found in 43% of the patients. One patient showed hypersensitivity to gold and cobalt. The present study showed that various odontologic factors might be involved in some of these patients' suffering. Thus, it is important that professionals from other disciplines collaborate with dentistry if these patients are to be properly investigated.

Reported symptoms and clinical findings in a group of subjects with longstanding bruxing behaviour

summary Signs and symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) and social medical history were reported in 29 subjects, aged 23–68 years, with longstanding (5 years or more) bruxing behaviour. The subjects were selected from answers to an advertisement in the local newspaper. The subjects presented many symptoms of a general character including somatic and psycho‐social problems, sleep disorders (72%), and pain (86%). More than half of the subjects (55%) had symptoms every day. Frequent aches in the neck, back, throat or shoulders were reported by 69% and frequent headache by 48% of the subjects. The most common symptoms of CMD were pain in the face or jaws (48%), stiffness in the jaws in the morning (44%), temporo‐mandibular joint (TMJ) sounds (34%) and fatigue in the jaws during chewing (38%) and the most common clinical signs were more than three muscles tender on palpation (76%), TMJ‐sounds (55%) and tenderness of TMJ on lateral palpation (66%). There was a statistically significant correlation between frequent tooth clenching and headache, pain in the neck, back, throat or shoulders, sleep disorders and high scores of the clinical dysfunction index (Di). The frequent clenchers had higher score values than the ‘non‐clenchers’ for pain in the face and the jaws; headache; pain in the neck, back, throat or shoulders and the clinical dysfunction index (Di). These findings indicate a causal relationship between frequent tooth clenching and signs and symptoms of CMD. including headache and pain in the neck, back, throat or shoulders and high pathogenicity for frequent clenching. However, the material in this study is small and some precaution must be taken prior to generalized conclusions. More studies are required, especially sleep laboratory investigations, which could perhaps give answers to some of the numerous questions in this unexplored field of odontology.

Craniomandibular Disorders and Skeletal Mineral Status

Values for bone mineral density of the femoral neck and lumbar spine were determined by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry for 355 postmenopausal women 48 to 56 years of age. The bone mineral density in three regions of the mandible was measured by quantitative computed tomography for 77 of the 355 women. Existing symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction were recorded in both an anamnestic inquiry and a clinical examination. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the bone mineral density of the skeleton and mandible is associated with symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunctions. The results suggest that the habits and conditions that provoke development of general bone loss in the skeleton may disturb the functional harmony of the masticatory system and, thus, increase the possibility for craniomandibular disorders (CMD).

Relationship between craniomandibular dysfunction and oral parafunctions in Caucasian children with and without unpleasant life events

An epidemiological study was conducted to investigate the relationship between craniomandibular dysfunction and oral parafunctions in 386 children aged 6-10 years with and without unpleasant life events. The results showed statistically significant correlations between grinding, clenching, lip/cheek biting and muscle tenderness or pain, and clicking in subjects without unpleasant life events. Also, significant correlations were found in the same group between these parafunctions and difficulties in opening wide and pain on movements. When the definitional symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction were aggregated, the chi-square test revealed significant correlations between them and the same oral parafunctions. The correlations in subjects with unpleasant life events between grinding, clenching, lip/cheek biting and each sign and symptom of craniomandibular dysfunction were close to the significance level. No significant correlations were detected between the definitional symptoms and these parafunctions in this group. The present study suggests that in patients without unpleasant life events grinding, clenching, and lip/cheek biting cannot be considered 'necessary' but can be 'sufficient' cause for the development of craniomandibular dysfunction. In subjects with unpleasant life events the origin of signs/symptoms of the dysfunction can be attributed to muscle tension or to another unknown aetiological factor.

Multidimensional evaluation of craniomandibular dysfunction. I: Symptoms and correlates.

To standardize clinical history taking, a comprehensive anamnestic questionnaire was developed (Screen). Screen includes questions about (i) pain, (ii) other symptoms of CMD, (iii) correlates of CMD, (iv) psychosocial factors, and (v) general health. Variables discriminating between subgroups of clinical cases and controls were described successively. This study was performed to assess whether subgroups of patients with signs and symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD), and a control group of dental patients with and without signs and symptoms of CMD, can be characterized by differential report of signs and symptoms of CMD, as reported in Screen. Results indicate that Screen can be used to discriminate between (i) subgroups of subjects with signs or symptoms of CMD (both clinical cases and controls) and controls without signs or symptoms of CMD; (ii) subgroups of clinical cases and controls with signs and/or symptoms of CMD; and (iii) patients with CMD with mainly a myogenous component and patients with CMD with mainly an arthrogenous component. Differences between patients and controls are interpreted with regard to the correct classification of patients with CMD with mainly a myogenous component and patients with CMD with mainly an arthrogenous component, and with regard to the subjective treatment need for CMD. The results of logistic regression analyses indicate that subsets of items of Screen correctly classified up to 80% of patients with myogenous or arthrogenous CMD. Implications for further research were discussed.

Multidimensional evaluation of craniomandibular dysfunction. II: Pain assessment.

To standardize clinical history taking, a comprehensive anamnestic questionnaire was developed (Screen). Screen includes questions about: (i) pain, (ii) other symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD), (iii) correlates of CMD, (iv) psychosocial factors, and (v) general health. The current study focuses on variables in Screen concerning pain reported somewhere in the head, neck and/or shoulders. This study was performed to assess whether subgroups of patients with signs and symptoms of CMD and a control group of dental patients with and without signs and symptoms of CMD can be characterized by differences in areas reported to be painful, in quantitative and qualitative characteristics of pain, and in factors exacerbating pain. Results indicate that several characteristics of pain as measured in Screen can be used to discriminate between: (i) subgroups of subjects with signs and/or symptoms of CMD and controls without signs or symptoms of CMD, (ii) subgroups of clinical cases and controls with signs or symptoms of CMD, and (iii) patients with CMD with mainly a myogenous component and patients with CMD with mainly an arthrogenous component. The results of logistic regression analysis indicate that four adverbs describing pain correctly classified 75% of patients with CMD-myo and patients with CMD-arthro. Differences between patients and controls are interpreted with regard to the correct classification of patients with CMD with a mainly myogenous component and patients with CMD with a mainly arthrogenous component and the subjective treatment need for CMD. Implications for further research are discussed.

A 6-year follow-up study of oral function in shortened dental arches. Part II: Craniomandibular dysfunction and oral comfort.

In this clinical 6-year follow-up study subjects with shortened dental arches (SDA, n = 55), characterized by the absence of molar support, are compared with subjects with complete dental arches (CDA, n = 52) with respect to items concerning craniomandibular dysfunction and oral comfort. In addition, a small group of subjects with SDA and removable partial dentures in the lower jaw (SDA + RPD, n = 19) is included in this study. Oral comfort is defined using the following criteria: (i) absence of pain and distress, meaning the absence of signs and symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction: (ii) chewing ability; and (iii) appreciation of the appearance of the dentition in relation to absent posterior teeth. Additionally, complaints about the free-end RPD are described. It is concluded that: (i) a SDA (consisting of 3-5 occlusal units, OU) is not a risk factor for CMD and is able to provide long-term sufficient oral comfort; and (ii) free-end RPD (in the lower jaw) in SDA do not prevent CMD and do not improve oral function in terms of oral comfort.

Psychosocial aspects of craniomandibular dysfunction. An assessment of clinical and community findings.

This study was performed to assess whether subgroups of patients with signs and symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) and a control group of dental patients with and without signs of CMD can be characterized by psychosocial variables, and whether there is evidence of stress-induced muscle hyperactivity as a contributing factor in the development of signs and symptoms of CMD. A group of 127 care-seeking patients and a control group of 158 dental patients completed a Questionnaire Battery (QB) designed to measure external stressors, stress-related emotional reactions (anxiety and depression) and personal factors such as coping styles, health locus of control and personality. Patients with CMD with both a myogenous and an arthrogenous component reported more stress and stronger stress-related emotional reactions than patients with either an arthrogenous or a myogenous CMD. However, patients with arthrogenous CMD did not differ on psychosocial variables from patients with myogenous CMD. In contrast to expectations, controls with signs of CMD reported more stress than patients with CMD. Compared with controls, CMD-patients experienced less personal control over their health and they considered health to be determined by chance or fate. CMD-patients also reported to cope differently with stress than controls. Analyses of covariance showed that the results were not influenced by differences in age, sex or pain reported in the head, neck and/or shoulders. Results were interpreted with regard to the psychophysiological theory of the development of signs and symptoms of CMD as a consequence of the progression of stress-induced muscle hyperactivity. Differences between patients and controls in personal factors were interpreted with regard to treatment need for CMD.