The Incidence Rate of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction in Patients with Earache

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) is known as a chronic pain in the earsmanifested in the form of tinnitus, earache, hearingloss, vertigo, and other impairments. Although patients affected with this disorderundergo long-term treatmentsusing various medicines without significant pain relief,medical care is still possible with a correct diagnosis. This study investigated the incidencerate of TMD in patients suffering from earache.

Materials and Methods:This cross-sectional study investigate theincidencerate of TMDin patients with earache referring todental clinics affiliated toTehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Iran, including patients with over six months of earache or those having pain despite using medicines. The Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (DC/TMD) Axis I and II Protocol was used for examining TMD and stress, and also independent t-test and Chi-square test were employedto compare TMD patientsin terms of age and gender.

Results:A total number of 100 individuals aged between 18 and 65 years, including 40 males and 60 females were examined in this study. The incidence rate of TMD in patients with earache was also reported by 76.5%.

Conclusion:The results indicated a highincidence rate ofTMDin patients having earache. Accordingly, patients complaining about TMD required specialized earache evaluationsby dentists and medics.