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Temporomandibular disorders in the geriatric population
1Northwestern University Dental School, Chicago, Ill.
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Contrary to common belief, temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) do not increase with age. Objective signs of TMDs are less frequent or stable in older adults, with fewer subjective complaints and reduced treatment demand.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Dental Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are commonly believed to increase with age.
- Understanding the age-related prevalence of TMDs is crucial for public health and clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the scientific literature regarding the relationship between age and temporomandibular disorders.
- To determine if objective signs and subjective complaints of TMDs change with advancing age.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of existing scientific literature was conducted.
- Studies examining the prevalence of objective TMD signs and subjective symptoms across different adult age groups were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Objective signs of TMDs, such as joint clicking, muscle tenderness, limited jaw movement, and irregular opening, were found to be less prevalent or stable in older adult populations.
- Subjective complaints associated with TMDs demonstrated a decline in older age groups.
- Consequently, the demand for TMD treatments decreased with increasing age.
Conclusions:
- The assumption that temporomandibular disorders become more prevalent in the elderly is not supported by current literature.
- Both objective manifestations and subjective experiences of TMDs tend to decrease or remain stable in older adults.
- This suggests a potential shift in the clinical focus and treatment needs for TMDs across the lifespan.
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