Which population is more commonly affected by TMD?

Which population is more commonly affected by TMD?

• A. Men more than women
• B. Women more than men
• C. Equally affected
• D. Children under 12

Answer: (B)

Temporomandibular disorder shows a higher prevalence in women than in men. In many studies, women are more commonly affected and often report more pronounced symptoms, particularly in adults of reproductive age. Hormonal influences, such as estrogen on joint tissues and pain sensitivity, along with psychosocial and behavioral factors that can contribute to pain and parafunctional habits, are thought to play a role in this gender difference. Since men have lower reported rates and children under 12 show relatively lower prevalence, the pattern is clearly not equal across sexes and not concentrated in younger children. Therefore, the population more commonly affected is women.

Temporomandibular disorder shows a higher prevalence in women than in men. In many studies, women are more commonly affected and often report more pronounced symptoms, particularly in adults of reproductive age. Hormonal influences, such as estrogen on joint tissues and pain sensitivity, along with psychosocial and behavioral factors that can contribute to pain and parafunctional habits, are thought to play a role in this gender difference. Since men have lower reported rates and children under 12 show relatively lower prevalence, the pattern is clearly not equal across sexes and not concentrated in younger children. Therefore, the population more commonly affected is women.