Temporomandibular pain in adolescents with a history of preterm birth

Abstract

Aim

To evaluate the frequency of TMD pain among adolescents with a history of preterm birth compared to a matched control group.

Methods

A group of 192 preterm‐born adolescents was followed up at the age of 17–19 years and compared to matched controls. Self‐report questionnaires included screening questions about TMD pain, chronic diseases, general health, depression, anxiety, anger, antisocial behavior, and self‐concept. TMD pain was defined as answering 'yes' to one or both of the following questions: "Do you have pain in the temple, face, temporomandibular joint, or jaws once a week or more?" and "Do you have pain when you open your mouth wide or chew once a week or more often?" Data analysis was performed using chi‐square test and logistic regression model with likelihood ratio test.

Results

A TMD pain frequency of 23% of preterm‐born adolescents and 26% among the controls was found, with no significant differences between the groups. Neither were there differences regarding anxiety, depression, anger, or self‐confidence. Within the preterm group, adolescents with TMD pain registered tension and pain in the body, trouble sleeping, stomach pain, and feelings of hopelessness about the future. The controls with TMD pain, more reported having a bad life, feeling like a failure, and having bodily pain. Among tested background variables only TMJ locking or intermittent locking once a week or more was found to explain TMD pain in adolescents.

Conclusion

A high frequency of TMD pain was found in both groups, one possible explanation could be TMJ dysfunction.

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