Correlation between oral parafunction and temporomandibular disorders and emotional status among Saudi children

Studies on association between temporomandibular disorders and oral parafunction in preschool chil-dren are few. The aim of the present study is to investigate the relationship between the subjective and objective signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), oral parafunction and emo-tional status in preschool children. The study is based on a clinical examination and questionnaire. Five hundred and two Saudi children aged 3 to 7 years were examined for different signs and symp-toms of TMD. In addition, the parents of the children were given a questionnaire to investigate the exis-tence of oral parafunction and evaluate the emotional status of children. The results of the study showed significant association between attrition and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, muscle tenderness and restricted opening, (P Values were 0.008, 0.019, 0.037 respectively). Significant associ-ation was found between habit of grinding and pain, while eating or opening the mouth (P< 0.012). Significant association was found between emotional status and multiple signs and symptoms of TMJ tenderness, TMJ pain and muscle tenderness (P <0.042). Significant association was found between emotional status and pain, while eating or opening of the mouth (P<0.048). Close to positive associa-tion was found between oral parafunction and jaw lock. The association between TMD and oral para-function as well as emotional status should direct the attention of the dentist to the importance of con-sidering the emotional status, oral parafunction and TMD when examining and formulating treatment plan for the child patient.

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