The relationship between forward head posture and temporomandibular joint disorder in dental students of Yasuj University of Medical Sciences in 2024

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Yasuj University of Medical Sciences-Faculty of Dentistry-Yasuj-Iran

2 Yasuj university of medical sciences _faculty of Dentistry_Yasuj_Iran

3 Yasuj University of Medical Sciences - Medical Education Development Center (edc)- Yasuj - Iran

4 1-Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences - Medicine School- Behbahan- Iran 2-Yasuj University of Medical Sciences-Medical Education Development Center- Yasuj- Iran

Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular disorders(TMDs) are among the most common causes of jaw and neck pain and can affect motor functions and overall quality of life. Forward head posture(FHP), characterized by a decrease in the craniovertebral angle (CVA), is a common postural abnormality. Previous studies exploring the direct link between FHP and TMDs have shown inconsistent and limited results. Studying this relationship among dental students — a group at higher risk because of ergonomic and postural challenges — may help fill this research gap.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 52 dental students (45 males, 7 females; mean age 26.65 ± 3.71 years) were evaluated using the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) to assess TMD and lateral-view photographic analysis to measure CVA. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and the Chi-square test.
Results: Most participants (98.1%) had mild TMD, while 1.9% experienced moderate TMD. No cases of severe TMD were identified. A statistically significant link was found between head posture (CVA) and TMD severity (P = 0.002, χ² = 12.235). All participants with FHP showed mild TMD, and the only case of moderate TMD was in the non-FHP group. No significant link was observed between gender and TMD severity.
Conclusion: The findings showed a high prevalence of mild TMD and a significant link between FHP and TMD among dental students. Assessing head and neck posture should be an essential part of TMD screening and treatment. Grouping students based on ergonomic and postural factors may help with early detection and prevention of functional temporomandibular abnormalities.

Keywords

Beyhagh
Volume 30, Issue 4
February 2026

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