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Headache and dysfunction of the masticatory system in adolescents
Cephalalgia : an International Journal of Headache
|December 1, 1986
Summary
Adolescent girls experience more frequent and intense headaches than boys. Headache severity is linked to jaw fatigue, chewing difficulties, and masticatory system dysfunction in teenagers.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Adolescent Health
- Dental Medicine
Background:
- Headaches are a common complaint among adolescents.
- The relationship between headaches and masticatory system dysfunction requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between headache characteristics and signs/symptoms of masticatory system dysfunction in adolescents.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire assessed headache frequency/intensity and masticatory symptoms in 285 17-year-olds.
- Functional examination evaluated the masticatory system.
Main Results:
- Girls reported significantly more frequent (18% vs 6%) and intense headaches than boys.
- Headache frequency/intensity correlated with jaw fatigue, chewing difficulty, masticatory muscle tenderness, and reduced mandibular mobility.
- Tooth-grinding/clenching related to headache frequency.
Conclusions:
- A significant link exists between headache frequency/intensity and masticatory system dysfunction in adolescents.
- Adolescent girls exhibit a higher prevalence of headaches and associated masticatory issues.