Alteration of Muscle Sensitivity in Children and Adolescents With Temporomandibular Dysfunction

Objective: To investigate the difference in Pressure Pain Threshold (PDT) in the craniocervical muscles in children and adolescents with TMD and control subjects without TMD. Theoretical Reference: The signs and symptoms of TMD can be diagnosed in all age groups; however, the prevalence of TMD is still low in children and may increase with age. Methodology: 28 girls aged between 10 and 15 years were included, divided into two groups, with and without TMD, regularly enrolled at Escola Luís Viana and Escola Nosso Mundo, located in the city of São Luís-MA, those who had completed previous orthognathic surgeries, orthodontic or TMD treatments and who did not present signed consent from their parents. The diagnosis of TMD was carried out using the DC/TMD or LDP using a digital algometer. The data was analyzed in Statistical Software. The difference between groups was compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The level of statistical significance was p≤ 0.05. This project was approved by the CEUMA University Research Ethics Committee. Results and Discussion: Of a total of 28 individuals, 46.42% (n=13) were diagnosed with myogenic TMD. A significant difference was observed between groups in LDP for the craniocervical muscles. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into the importance of assessing temporomandibular disorder in childhood. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by using a validated and standardized tool for diagnosing temporomandibular disorders.