To what extent are the characteristics of painful temporomandibular disorders predictors of self-reported limitations in jaw function?

Objective: The study evaluated the extent to which the source, intensity, and duration of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain are predictors of limitations in jaw function. Methods: The sample included 166 subjects (12-69 years) who self-administered the Jaw Function Limitation Scale (JFLS) and underwent clinical examinations. Results: In univariate correlations, global limitation (long-form JFLS) as well as mastication, mobility, and communication had the highest correlation with headache attributed to TMD (r = 0.362-0.415; p < 0.001). Correlation was higher for pain intensity than chronicity. In multiple regression analysis, significant predictors of jaw limitations (long-form JFLS) were only headache and increasing age (p < 0.001), when controlling for demographic variables, the characteristics of pain, source of pain, and presence of intraarticular disorders. Discussion: Limitation in jaw function is influenced more by pain than by the intracapsular condition and even more so by pain intensity than chronicity.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the predictive value of the source, intensity, and duration of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain on limitations in jaw function. The results showed that pain intensity had a stronger correlation with jaw limitations than chronicity, and headache attributed to TMD was a significant predictor of jaw limitations.