Epidemiology

Estimates of TMD incidence and prevalence vary widely. One prospective cohort study reported an incidence rate of 4% per year among US adults.[13]​ Other studies provide incidence estimates in adults in developed countries ranging from 3.2% to 10.0% in males and from 9% to 15% in females. Incidence peaks between ages 20 and 40 years.[12]

TMDs are more common in women than in men.[4]​[14]​​[15]​​​​ In the general US population, it is estimated that 17.4% of women have some form of this disorder, compared with 9.3% of men.[16] Prevalence is similar throughout the US, Canada, and Europe.[16]​ Studies have found that 32.5% of female adolescents ages 16-19 years reported school absences and analgesic consumption because of pain related to TMDs, compared with 9.7% of male adolescents.[17]

While up to 70% of the population may have at least one of the symptoms associated with TMDs at some point, only 1 in 4 patients with symptoms and signs of this condition seek treatment, most of whom are women.[11]

TMD is rare in children ages <6 years and in older adults.[18][19][20]​​ The incidence of TMDs increases with age in children.[17]

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