Impact of sports on temporomandibular dysfunction: a comparison of competitive and recreational female athletes as well as female non-athletes

Objectives The present study was conducted to investigate the correlation between (competitive) sports and the occurrence of temporomandibular dysfunctions (TMD) by comparing the prevalences in competitive, recreational, and non-athletic women. Materials and methods A total of 138 women between the ages of 18 and 45 were interviewed about symptoms of TMD by means of a questionnaire. Based on their athletic performance level, the participating women were classified as competitive athletes, recreational athletes, or non-athletes (each group n = 46). Results Symptoms of TMD were notably less frequent in competitive female athletes (52.2%) than in recreational female athletes (63.0%) and female non-athletes (60.9%). With increasing training load, the prevalence of TMD decreased in both the competitive and recreational female athlete groups. Conclusions Athletic activity in general seems to have a positive effect on the occurrence of TMD. Competitive female athletes appear less likely to suffer from symptoms of TMD than recreational athletes and non-athletes. One possible explanation for this could be the better supervision by qualified trainers and physiotherapists in competitive sports. Clinical relevance Patients should be motivated to engage in sports as a protective measure against symptoms of TMD. However, it is important to ensure that they are properly instructed by experienced personnel in order to avoid unphysiological strain and negative consequences.