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Temporomandibular Disorders in 13- and 15-Year-Old Females: A Longitudinal Study
Christina Mejersjö1, Eva-Karin Bergström2,3, Bengt Wenneberg4
1Department of Orofacial Pain, Institute of Odontology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Clinical and Experimental Dental Research
|December 10, 2025
Summary
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms are common in adolescent girls, affecting about one-third by age 15. Oral parafunctions strongly correlate with these symptoms, highlighting the need for early intervention.
Area of Science:
- Oral health
- Adolescent health
- Pain management
Background:
- Temporomandibular pain and dysfunction (TMD) affects many adolescents, particularly females.
- Understanding the prevalence and progression of TMD in early adolescence is crucial for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and progression of TMD symptoms in adolescent girls.
- To examine the relationship between TMD symptoms and oral parafunctions in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study followed 630 girls aged 13, with 507 completing follow-up at age 15.
- Data collected via questionnaires at baseline and follow-up.
- Clinical examinations performed on a subset at baseline; all had regular dental check-ups.
Main Results:
- Approximately one-fourth of 13-year-old girls reported weekly TMD symptoms and headache, increasing to one-third by age 15.
- Headache was the most frequent complaint, with 7.5% experiencing daily headaches at 15.
- TMD signs were present in 36% of girls at age 13, with pain-related diagnoses in 32% and joint clicking in 4.5%.
- A strong association was found between TMD symptoms and oral parafunctions.
Conclusions:
- One-third of adolescent girls experience TMD symptoms and exhibit clinical signs by ages 13-15.
- Early identification and attention to TMD symptoms in young teenagers are essential for effective management.
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