Avaliação da disfunção temporomandibular e sua correlação com a hiperlordose cervical em estudantes universitários de fisioterapia e odontologia: estudo qualitativo e quantitativo

Abstract

Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD) in university students is frequently associated with cervical hyperlordosis due to high susceptibility and increased severity from future professional demands. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of Temporomandibular Dysfunction and its relationship with cervical hyperlordosis in physiotherapy and dentistry students. Fifty-six students from the physiotherapy and dentistry courses at Dom Bosco University Center - UNDB participated in this study, aged 19 to 30 years, of both genders. Individuals with more than two dental failures, a history of direct or surgical trauma in the orofacial region, as well as those under dental treatment, were excluded. The study follows a cross-sectional observational approach of a qualitative-quantitative nature. Sociodemographic data were collected to outline the social profile of university students. The Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) Axis I instruments and the "Kinovea" software were used to examine cervical hyperlordosis. The results showed that 29 (51.79%) were from the physiotherapy course and 27 (48.21%) from the dentistry course. The prevalence of Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD) was 55.36% in both groups studied, including both articular and muscular Temporomandibular Dysfunction. All participants showed cervical hyperlordosis, with 53.57% of cases being mild and 46.43% moderate. Parafunctional habits, such as teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, nail biting, chewing gum, and biting objects, were more common among physiotherapy students (28.57%). Additionally, headaches were a more frequent symptom among dentistry students (28.57%). It is concluded that there is a high prevalence of Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD) and cervical hyperlordosis among physiotherapy and dentistry students. The relationship between these conditions is clear, indicating the need for preventive strategies and early intervention.