The Impact of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction on the Quality of Life of Patients

Relevance. According to the World Health Organization, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are highly prevalent and are among the most common pathologies of the dentofacial system. The frequency of TMJ dysfunction is mainly observed in adults aged 35–45, reaching 75% of cases. The high prevalence and significant impact of this pathology on patients’ quality of life underscore the need for its comprehensive study. Objective. To analyze the main complaints of patients with TMJ dysfunction and their impact on quality of life. Materials and methods. Two hundred twenty-four patients were examined to identify temporomandibular joint disorders. Based on the inclusion, non-inclusion, and exclusion criteria, 135 patients of both sexes (aged 20–60) participated in the study, accounting for 60.3% of all those who sought dental care at the dental medical center of Bogomolets National Medical University. The age of the study participants ranged from 20 to 60 years. To collect medical history, identify patient complaints, assess the functions of the masticatory apparatus and TMJ, and analyze possible postural and psychosomatic factors, the DC/TMD Axis I-II questionnaires (Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders) and the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS-20, axis II) were used. Statistical analysis was performed using MedStat and Microsoft Excel software. Student’s t-test was used to determine statistically significant differences between indicators, and the Shapiro-Wilk test was used to check the normality of the distribution of the variation series. Spearman’s coefficient was used to assess the relationship between indicators. Results. Patients diagnosed with TMJ dysfunction show pronounced functional limitations and psychoemotional disorders, while patients who have sought treatment for the first time show only initial or moderate symptoms without a significant impact on their quality of life. Conclusion. The DC/TMD Axis I-II questionnaires (Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders) and the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS-20, axis II) are concise and informative tools for assessing the quality of life of patients with TMJ disorders.