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Association Between Total Testosterone Levels and Painful Temporomandibular Disorders in Women: A Pilot Case-Control
Shikha Yadav1, Rajeev Aravindakshan2, Vidya D Sripad3
1Department of Dentistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Mangalagiri, Guntur, IND.
Cureus
|July 9, 2026
Summary
This study found no significant link between testosterone levels and painful temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) in young women. Testosterone does not appear to be a primary factor in the development of TMDs.
Area of Science:
- Orofacial Pain Research
- Endocrinology
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) cause orofacial pain and are more common in women, suggesting hormonal links.
- Estrogen's role in TMDs is studied, but testosterone's influence remains unclear.
- Understanding hormonal factors is crucial for TMD pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between serum testosterone levels and painful TMDs in women aged 18-30.
- To determine if testosterone levels correlate with TMD presence or severity in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A pilot case-control study involving 47 women (17 with TMDs, 30 controls).
- Serum total testosterone levels were measured.
- Statistical analyses included ANCOVA and correlation to assess relationships.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant difference in serum testosterone levels between women with and without TMDs.
- Testosterone levels did not correlate with TMD duration or severity.
- Neither age nor testosterone levels significantly predicted TMD presence.
Conclusions:
- Serum testosterone is not significantly associated with painful TMDs in young women.
- Testosterone may not be a primary factor in TMD development.
- Further research is needed, considering menstrual cycle hormonal fluctuations.
