Clinical and Psychological Profiles of Patients With Subclinical Versus Self‐Reported Painful Temporomandibular Disorders

Objective To compare clinical examination findings, functional limitations, and psychological profiles between patients with subclinical temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and those with self‐reported painful TMD. Materials and Methods This cross‐sectional study investigated 98 subclinical TMD patients and 262 self‐reported painful TMD patients attending a specialised orofacial pain clinic. Subclinical TMD was defined as positive palpation findings without muscle or joint pain complaints. Self‐reported painful TMD required both pain complaints and positive clinical findings. Validated questionnaires assessed jaw functional limitations (JFLS‐20), depression (PHQ‐9), stress (SPST‐20), and oral behaviours (OBC). Statistical analysis used Mann–Whitney U tests and chi‐square tests with Bonferroni correction. Results Self‐reported painful TMD patients were significantly older (median age 39 vs. 31 years, p = 0.003), showed greater jaw functional limitations (JFLS global score: 1.88 vs. 0.75, p < 0.001), and higher depression scores (PHQ‐9: 1.0 vs. 0.0, p < 0.001). Sleep bruxism frequency differed significantly between groups ( p < 0.001), with subclinical patients more commonly reporting frequent sleep bruxism. No significant differences were found in stress levels, overall oral behaviours, or daytime clenching frequency. Conclusions Patients with self‐reported painful TMD demonstrate distinct clinical profiles characterised by greater functional impairment and psychological distress compared to subclinical cases. Clinical Relevance These findings suggest different phenotypes within the TMD spectrum that may require tailored clinical approaches. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether subclinical TMD represents an early stage or a distinct entity.