Risk Factors of Temporomandibular Disorders Among College Students in Erbil City

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are complex conditions impacting the chewing apparatus. University students may be especially susceptible due to factors like academic pressure, specific behavioral patterns, and inadequate sleep. This research sought to determine the prevalence of TMD and identify its associated risk factors within a sample of college students in Erbil City, Iraq.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study at Jihan University, enrolling 377 students aged 18–23 years (90.2% participation rate). Data collection involved structured questionnaires and clinical evaluations, capturing socio-demographic details, parafunctional habits, anxiety (via the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, GAD-7), and sleep quality (using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PSQI). TMD status was diagnosed and classified using the Helkimo Clinical Dysfunction Index.

Results: The mean age of participants was 20.51±1.80 years; 64.5% were female. The TMD prevalence was notably high at 69.5%. This figure included 48.8% with moderate dysfunction, 13.0% with mild dysfunction, and 7.7% with severe dysfunction. Age showed a significant association with TMD prevalence (p=0.005), peaking in the 22–23 year-old group. Both anxiety and poor sleep quality were strongly linked to TMD (p<0.001 and p=0.049, respectively). Conversely, gender, gum chewing, and bruxism did not show significant associations.

Conclusion: TMD is exceedingly common among Erbil college students. Increased age, anxiety, and subpar sleep quality were confirmed as key risk factors. These findings stress the crucial role of psychological support and sleep management in TMD mitigation, suggesting a clear need for focused health interventions in the university environment.