Prevalence of temporomandibular dysfunction in a group of scuba divers.

Aldridge, R D; Fenlon, M R · Br J Sports Med · 2004

cross_sectional · Level IV

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Abstract

Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) has been reported to be a common problem in divers, with a prevalence of up to 68%. No evidence for this is available. To investigate the prevalence of TMD in divers. Sixty three subjects were asked to retrospectively complete a questionnaire on symptoms of TMD after diving in warm and cold water areas and in daily life. The prevalence of TMD was greater in female divers. The prevalence of TMD while diving was about 26%, comparable to that experienced in daily life. Improvements in mouthpiece design and lighter demand valves mean that TMD is now probably exacerbated by diving rather than caused by it.

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