The study of relationship between reported temporomandibular symptoms and clinical dysfunction index among university students in Shiraz

BACKGROUND: This study was designed to evaluate the correlation between subjective data obtained from a questionnaire and clinical examination among students in Shiraz university of medical sciences. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional prospective study, the samples consisted of 200 subjects, with equal distribution between males and females. Subjects’ ages ranged from 18 to 30 years (24.07±2.93). A functional evaluation was performed using the Helkimo clinical dysfunction (Di) and anamnestic (Ai) indices. Data were evaluated by the Chi-square test between gender and clinical dysfunction index (Di) and correlation coefficient between Di and Ai (the level of significance was set at P<0.05). RESULTS: Among the total study population, 30% reported mild symptoms (Ai I) while 2% had severe (Ai II). In the clinical examination, 71% showed some degree of dysfunction. These degrees were as follows: 50% were classified as mild (Di I), 13% moderate (Di II) and 8% severe signs and symptoms (Di III). With respect to gender, women (80%) were more affected than men (62%). A significant relationship was found between gender and the occurrence of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) (P<0.05). The correlation coefficient (r) between the reported symptoms (Ai) and recorded signs (Di) was 0.53. There were positive correlation coefficient between Di and Ai. They were statistically significant (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of signs and symptoms of TMD among students in Shiraz University of Medical Sciences was seen, which was greater in women. Despite suffering from TMD, students were not aware of their disorders.