Prevalence of TMD symptoms and their association with malocclusal traits in children in the mixed dentition period

Background: Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) and malocclusion in children are often investigated in study populations with wide age ranges. In such populations, prevalences and associations of certain traits can be blurred because of growth-related variances. An investigation among children within a smaller age spectrum might provide further insights. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of TMD symptoms among schoolchildren in the early mixed dentition period and to detect if there are any interrelations with malocclusal traits. Methods: In a prospective, cross-sectional setting, a randomly generated sample of 157 Tyrolean schoolchildren underwent anamnesis and a clinical examination to assess malocclusal traits and the functional condition of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Results: The overall prevalence of TMD symptoms was low. TMJ limitation (11.5%) and clicking (10.2%) were the most common findings, followed by joint hypermobility (4.5%) and tenderness upon palpation (1.9%). Associations with malocclusal traits were only found for posterior crossbite and increased overjet. Conclusion: Although malocclusions do not seem to play a major role in the development of TMD, severe malocclusal traits are likely to exert some influence. Therefore, orthodontic screening should contain a brief checkup of the functional condition of the temporomandibular system. Keywords: malocclusions, mouth opening capacity, temporomandibular joint, TMD