Influence of sex on temporomandibular disorder pain: a review of occurrence and development

Correspondence to: Maria Cecília Ferraz de Arruda Veiga Departmento de Ciências Fisiológicas Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba, UNICAMP Cx Postal 52, 13414-903 Piracicaba, SP, Brasil Phone: +55-19-2106-5306 Fax: +55-19-2106-5218 E-mail: [email protected] Abstract Aim: The aim of this study was to develop a narrative literature review using international research to present the influence of sex on occurrence and development of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain. Methods: The data sources were computer-based searches in PubMed between 1987 and Feb 2008 using appropriate keywords. For inclusion in this review, articles had to meet the following criteria: be written in English; include human and nonhuman subjects; be published a full-text paper in a peer-reviewed medical journal. Results: The studies considered eligible for this narrative review presented results in agreement with the difference in sex and orofacial pain. Patients were almost always adults, with particular focus on patients’ sex. Clinical conditions were predominantly TDM pain. Since sexual dimorphism was detected in TMD pain, the results are focused on women. Conclusion: The findings of this review suggest that there is difference in the occurrence and development of pain according to the individual’s sex, women being more susceptible to TMD pain.