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Facial pain complaints in the elderly
Summary
Facial pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction are uncommon in older adults. Most elderly individuals reported no facial pain, with a small percentage experiencing TMJ pain, often linked to joint sounds or teeth grinding.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Facial pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are prevalent conditions.
- Understanding the incidence in elderly populations is crucial for targeted healthcare interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of facial pain and mandibular dysfunction in a sample of elderly Americans.
- To identify potential risk factors or associated symptoms for temporomandibular joint pain in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A self-report questionnaire was mailed to 839 elderly, middle-class American volunteers.
- Data were collected from 562 respondents (67% response rate).
- Statistical analysis focused on the incidence of facial pain and TMJ dysfunction.
Main Results:
- A high percentage of respondents (95.4%) reported no facial pain.
- Only 4.4% of individuals experienced temporomandibular joint pain.
- Joint sounds and bruxism (teeth clenching/grinding) were reported by 50% of those with facial pain.
Conclusions:
- Facial pain and TMJ dysfunction appear to have a low incidence in the studied elderly population.
- Bruxism and joint sounds may be associated with TMJ pain in older adults.
- Further research could explore the long-term impact and management of these conditions in geriatrics.