TMJ Pain and Personality Testing

During the past two decades, many researchers have attempted to examine the potential relationship between temporomandibular dysfunction and psychological abnormalities. The Crown Crisp Experimental Index and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), among other tests, have been used to assess psychopathological indicators in patients with TMJ syndrome. Unfortunately, the data from these studies are conflicting and suggest both significant and nonsignificant psychological associations with TMJ dysfunction (alleged indicators of TMJ-associated psychological disturbance have included hypochondriasis, hysteria and anxiety, among other conditions).