Evaluation of skin sensitivity in individuals presented with temporomandibular disorder

Abstract

Purpose: to identify the occurrence of a difference in skin sensitivity between analogous points on the face in individuals with temporomandibular disorder. Methods: a total of 60 individuals of both genders, aged 18 to 73 years, participated in the study. People classified with TMD signs and symptoms with the Fonseca Anamnestic Questionnaire were included. The skin sensitivity was evaluated with a Semmes-Weinstein esthesiometer. Sensitivity change was defined in this study as the occurrence of a difference between analogous points on both hemifaces. The localization of the points followed the regional block anatomical description and was confirmed with a neuromuscular electrostimulation device. The collected data were analyzed statistically with a 5% significance level. Results: the occurrence of a difference in sensitivity between the analogous points had a significant association with age group and severity of TMD. However, no association was perceived between sensitivity change and gender. Conclusion: in the population studied, the more severe the temporomandibular disorder, the greater the skin sensitivity change on the face. Also, the older the person, the higher the number of analogous points with a difference in sensitivity.