Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMD), are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. This study was done to declare the association of temporomandibular joint disorder symptoms with anxiety and depression.
Methodology: An online survey was done which consisted of many questions for indicating the presence or absence of TMD and its association with anxiety and depression. During August and September, this survey was sent on email to many dental students of different dental classes asking them to participate in the survey. The answers of the students were counted and underwent analysis.
Results: Most of the students didn’t suffer from either TMD nor anxiety and depression. It was obvious that students who suffered from TMD were also suffering from anxiety or depression. The risk of TMD occurrence was directly proportional to the psychological status of the individuals; especially anxiety and depression.
Conclusion: Anxiety and depression are considered serious factors for TMD incidence and severity. Few studies have focused on the association of TMD symptoms with anxiety and depression, but still there is need to increase studies about the association of TMD symptoms with anxiety and depression.

Key words: TMD, anxiety, depression, TMJ.