Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction And Swallowing Difficulties In Stroke - An Observational Study” To International Journal Of Dentistry And Oral Science

Background: The prevalence of stroke patient having Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is 30%-60%. 23 % of the subject have difficulty in swallowing after stroke. In stroke patient, the Temporomandibular joint function and Dysphagia are prevalent, due to involvement of the masticatory muscles. Hence on rehabilitation of stroke patients, due consideration has to be given to Temporomandibular joint function and dysphagia. Objective: To observe the Temporomandibular joint dysfunction and swallowing difficulties in stroke. Methodology: Non experimental design,10 subjects were selected by convenient sampling and Temporomandibular joint function and swallowing difficulty were assessed. Outcome: Craniomandibular Index (CMI) and The Modified Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability (MMASA). RESULTS: This study shows that 100% of the samples in this study were found to have temporomandibular joint dysfunctions associated with stroke. 30% of the stroke population was found to have been affected with dysphagia as a cause of temporomandibular joint dysfunction associated with stroke. Conclusion: The study concluded that Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is present among the stroke patients with mild swallowing difficulties of 30%. Hence stroke patients should also be assessed with Temporomandibular joint function and swallowing difficulties to prevent dysfunction, stroke management protocol should include Temporomandibular joint treatment.