Knowledge and Attitude towards Association between Smartphone Use and Temporomandibular Disorders
Abstract
This study explores the connection between Smartphone usage and Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) in Undergraduate Dental students. TMDs refer to issues affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, often leading to pain and difficulty in jaw movement. With the rapid rise in smartphone usage, especially among younger people, there are growing concerns about how prolonged use of these devices may impact physical health. By conducting a Cross-sectional survey among 201 Undergraduate Dental students, the research investigates how smartphone behaviours—such as lengthy usage, poor posture, and teeth clenching might play a role in the onset of TMD symptoms. The results indicate that excessive smartphone use, combined with habits like bending the neck and holding the phone in awkward positions, can increase the chances of experiencing jaw pain and discomfort. This Survey highlights the importance of being aware of the potential connection between smartphone use and TMDs, advocating for better posture and device usage practices to reduce the risk of developing these disorders.
Aim: The Aim of this study is to investigate the link between Smartphone usage and the development of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) in Undergraduate Dental students.
Objective
1) To assess the prevalence of TMD symptoms (including jaw pain, clicking sounds, and difficulty moving the jaw) in students.
2) To increase awareness of the potential risks associated with extended smartphone use and promote healthier habits to help prevent TMDs among students.
Method: A Cross-sectional Survey was conducted among 201 Dental students, comprising 64 males (31.8%) and 137 females (68.2%), including, 33 Second year BDS students, 42 Third-year BDS students, 52 Fourth-year BDS students, and 74 Interns. The Survey included 11 questions exploring awareness, perceptions, and potential barriers among Dental students on the association between smart phone use and Temporomandibular disorders. Responses were analysed based on gender and year of study using chi-square tests to identify statistically significant differences.
References
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