pdf The Impact of Past Stress on the Temporomandibular Joint: A Survey among First and Fifth Stage Dental Students at Dijlah University College

Amir A. Majeed

Abstract

The present study aims to assess the prevalence of temporomandibular disorder symptoms among dental students at Dijlah University College and to investigate their association with sex, parafunctional habits, psychological stress, and anxiety. Additionally, it seeks to identify possible risk factors for the development of temporomandibular disorders, with a focus on students in the first and fifth stages of the dentistry program.

A cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 434 dental students at Dijlah University College in Baghdad, Iraq. The sample included 167 fifth-stage students and 267 first-stage students, comprising 196 males and 238 females. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire developed by researchers, administered over a period of approximately four months, from December 1, 2023, to March 10, 2024.

The results indicated a significant correlation between temporomandibular joint disorders and gender, with a higher incidence observed in females compared to males. Additionally, the prevalence of temporomandibular joint pain was significantly higher among fifth stage students compared to first stage students. However, the intensity of pain was significantly higher in stage one students than in stage fifth students.

TMD is significantly (P<00) more prevalent in females than males. While TMJ pain is more common among fifth-stage students, its severity is greater (P<00) in first-stage (preclinical) students.