1Maryam Hameed Alwan, MSc. and 2Abbas A. Salam, BDS
1, 2 Department of Oral Diagnosis, College of Dentistry, University of Baghdad,
Iraq.
Corresponding Author: Maryam Hameed Alwan
E. mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Received 13 October 2022.
Accepted for publication on December 20, 2022.
Published April 10, 2023.
Doi: https://doi.org/10.58827/893112xktvfb
Abstract
Introduction Temporomandibular disorder refers to a group of disorders with symptoms including discomfort, limited mobility, muscular pain, and intermittent joint noises. Objectives are to assess the cross-sectional prevalence of temporomandibular disorders among dental students at Baghdad University as well as highlight the impact of stress as the main contributor to the joint problem. Materials and Methods The study involved 91 undergraduate dentistry students, 26 males, and 65 females. The self-administered questionnaire, which consisted of 20 items and was provided online, was based on two assessments: the Fonseca Anamnestic Index and the Perceived Stress Scale. Results The Fonseca questionnaire assessed the prevalence of signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The results revealed that 30.8% of total students were classified as being free of TMD, and 69.2% were classified as having TMD, with mild TMD at 42.9%, moderate TMD at 18.7%, and severe at 7.7%. The Perceived Stress Scale PSS evaluation results revealed that the students› stress levels were either low, moderate, or high, accounting for 4.4%, 70.3%, and 25.3%, respectively. Conclusion TMD is common among the University of Baghdad students, indicating the significance of stress in the development and/or progression of TMD. The study›s findings are concerning, suggesting more research is needed to uncover risk factors connected with TMD to develop preventative and treatment approaches.
