Estrogen and Temporomandibular Disorders

By Tran M. Luu, RDH, BSDH; Faizan Kabani, RDH, MHA, MBA, PhD; Kathleen B. Muzzin, RDH, MS

Affecting the quality of life for more than 10 million Americans, temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are musculoskeletal conditions associated with pain and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and muscles of mastication.^1­–3 The pain and dysfunction associated with TMDs are more prevalent among women during reproductive years, suggesting estrogen plays a role in TMD pathophysiology.¹ Studies describe the potential role of hormonal fluctuations as a contributing risk factor for TMD-related pain.^1,2 Furthermore, evidence suggests estrogen is a prominent hormone, influencing both inflammatory and pain processes.^1,2

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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