Investigating the relationship between temporomandibular disorders and personality traits

Background: This observational study investigates the potential link between temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and personality disorders. The Personality Inventory for Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM)-5-Brief Form (PID-5-BF) was used to assess personality traits, while TMD diagnosis was established by combining dental and clinical history with specific screening questionnaires, including the TMD-Pain Screener. Methods: The study sample was recruited based on inclusion criteria requiring the presence of TMD-related symptoms (pain, joint clicking or functional limitations of the temporomandibular joint), with no active systemic or psychiatric conditions. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods to identify significant correlations between PID-5-BF scores and the severity of temporomandibular symptoms. Results: Results highlight a relevant connection between specific personality domains and TMD symptom severity, suggesting that psychological factors may influence both the onset and persistence of the disorder. Statistically significant associations were found in the domains of antagonism (p = 0.039), negative affectivity (p = 0.024), and the mean total PID-5-BF score (p = 0.021), confirming the role of specific personality traits in modulating temporomandibular pain. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of an integrated approach, combining dental and psychological expertise, to improve clinical management and develop more effective prevention and treatment strategies.