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Temporomandibular joint dysfunction and selected health parameters in the elderly
L P Harriman1, D A Snowdon, L B Messer
1School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) in older adults is linked to having complete dentures and fewer teeth, particularly posterior ones. This study highlights oral health factors associated with TMJD in elderly nuns.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Dental Medicine
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) is understudied in elderly populations.
- Understanding TMJD in older adults is crucial for maintaining quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between TMJD and various health parameters in elderly nuns.
- To identify specific oral health factors associated with TMJD in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 117 Roman Catholic sisters aged 75–94.
- Comprehensive assessments included mental, physical, and oral health evaluations.
- Statistical analysis to determine associations between TMJD and health parameters.
Main Results:
- TMJD was diagnosed in 26 participants.
- No association found between TMJD and age, education, mental status, or physical function.
- In younger elderly (75–84), TMJD correlated with self-reported arthritis, edentulism, and complete dentures, and inversely with tooth count (especially posterior teeth).
Conclusions:
- TMJD in the elderly is associated with oral conditions like complete dentures and reduced posterior teeth.
- These associations appear weaker in the oldest age group (85–94).
- Further research is needed to understand the implications of these findings for geriatric oral healthcare.