The Relationship of Temporomandibular Joint, Orofacial Pain, and Sleep Apnea

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a heterogeneous family of musculoskeletal disorders that represent the most common chronic orofacial pain condition. It has been described as a prototypic idiopathic pain syndrome, characterized by episodic, masticatory muscle and/or joint pain. Patients often present with overlapping symptoms including psychological distress, neuroendocrine abnormalities, and chronic insomnia. Characteristics of this condition include persistent pain in the TMJ, periauricular region, and muscles of the head and neck. Prevalence in the adult population is estimated from 5 to 12% with a higher prevalence in females. What makes sleep disorders and headaches/orofacial pain highly relevant is the fact that both conditions highly increase the risk for each other. Pain is a complex experience that encompasses cognitive, emotional, motivational, and discriminating sensorial dimensions and is reported by approximately 15% of the general population and 50% of the elderly.