Heterogeneity of temporomandibular disorders: cluster and case-control analyses

Abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by Dr Trevor Watts

Abstract

This study suggests the existence of 3 subgroups with TMJ pain related to life disturbances and one pain-free but disabled group.

Main

Velly AM, Philippe P et al. J Oral Rehabil 2002; 29: 969–979

In 2 Montreal dental clinics, 162 patients diagnosed with TMJ dysfunction were categorized in respect of the nature of their pains and jaw function. Cluster analysis identified 4 subgroups, which were compared with 100 controls who included 17 patients with symptomless manifestation of clicking or movement limitation.

Two clusters, of 9% and 43% of patients respectively, when compared with controls, had greater tendencies to clench and grind teeth and experience depression. These groups were considered dysfunctional by the authors. Past orthodontic treatment and female gender were more frequent in another cluster of 34%, and depression in a further 15%. The last group was pain-free, but almost all experienced disc displacement.