The TMD-7 as a Brief Measure for Assessing Temporomandibular Disorder

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this cross-sectional prospective study was to determine the internal consistency of the TMD-7, and compare prevalence of TMD symptoms in an adult population.

Materials and Methods Upon presenting to the orthodontic screening appointment, a total of 440 subjects (316 females and 124 males) were asked to complete the TMD-7 questionnaire. A total of 108 of the participants were later excluded from the study either due to the duplicate or missing responses. The final sample consisted of data from 332 participants (232 females and 100 males), aged between 18 and 64 (mean age: 42.9 ± 9.0) years.

Statistical Analysis Cronbach's α statistics were calculated to assess internal consistency. Comparisons between genders, among age categories, and between subjects with versus without prior orthodontic treatment were performed using Wilcoxon ranks sum and Kruskal–Wallis tests. Comparisons for differences in the individual TMD-7 item ratings were performed using Mantel–Haenszel chi-square tests for ordered categorical responses.

Results The calculated Cronbach's α for TMD-7 scale was 0.77. No statistically significant differences were found in the TMD-7 scale score or the individual TMD-7 item ratings between age categories (p = 0.993). Females had significantly higher TMD-7 scale score and higher ratings for headache, pain in jaw, pain in neck, pain in forehead, difficulty opening mouth, and difficulty while eating (p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences were found in the TMD-7 scale score or the individual TMD-7 item ratings between subjects with versus without previous orthodontic treatment (p = 0.075).

Conclusion The TMD-7 tool has good internal consistency and can be used reliably for assessment of TMD symptoms in adults. The use of this tool revealed no significant differences between age groups or between subjects with or without previous orthodontic treatment. However, a significant female gender predisposition for TMD symptoms in the adulthood was determined.