The Impact of Dizziness on Daily Activities in Patients with Temporomandibular Dysfunction

Objective: the objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of dizziness on the performance of daily practices in temporomandibular disorders (TMD) patients using the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) questionnaires. Methods: we evaluated 20 women with a mean age of 52.3 years from February 2014 to July 2015. The following were carried out: anamnesis, ENT examination, vestibular examination, and application of DHI and ABC questionnaires. Results: a) alterations were observed with a prevalence of peripheral vestibular deficit dysfunction independent of the affected side and dizziness for the emotional domain in the DHI; b) The ABC confidence scale showed less confidence for questions 15 (Stepping onto or off an escalator while holding onto parcels so that you cannot hold the railing) and 16 (Walking outside on slippery sidewalks); c) There was no significant correlation between the ABC confidence scale and the vestibular examination results or the symptom of dizziness. Conclusion: based on the obtained results, it is noted that the applied DHI and ABC questionnaires showed sensitivity in quantifying the level of perception for balance disorders in patients and therefore the results may assist in choosing the most appropriate intervention.