Hormonal Fluctuations Intensify Temporomandibular Disorder Pain Without Impairing Masticatory Function

Purpose: The influence of hormonal fluctuations on pain and mastication was evaluated in patients with painful temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms. Materials and Methods: Fifty women were assigned to menstrual cycle and oral contraceptive groups (n = 25). Their TMD was diagnosed by Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. Pain levels, maximum oclusal force (MOF), and masticatory performance (MP) were measured in all menstrual cycle phases. Results: A lower pain level was observed in the ovulatory phase when compared to menstrual and luteal phases (P = .02). No differences were found regarding MOF (P = .20) or MP (P = .94). Conclusions: Hormonal fluctuations intensify pain in women with symptomatic TMD without impairing mastication.