Predictors of TMD symptoms in Amazonian military personnel: Occupational, psychosocial, and bruxism-related factors

To investigate the prevalence of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and its association with stress, bruxism, and pain hypervigilance among military personnel in the Amazon region, Brazil. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 352 active-duty military personnel without health issues. Participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale, Pain Vigilance Awareness Questionnaire, questions on awake and sleep bruxism, and the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorder (DC/TMD). Logistic regression models were applied, retaining variables with p ≤ .05. Model fit was tested using the Akaike Information Criterion. TMD symptoms were reported by 53.7% of participants, and 48.0% experienced pain. Significant associations were observed between TMD and longer service duration, awake and sleep bruxism, and higher stress. Women reported more headaches, while men more often experienced jaw-locking. TMD was highly prevalent and linked to stress, bruxism, and service duration, highlighting the need for interventions to mitigate physical and psychological consequences in military populations.