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Journal: Cranio: The Journal of Craniomandibular Practice. 2007 Apr;25(2):127-33.

Authors and affiliation: Salvetti G, Manfredini D, Bazzichi L, Bosco M. Section of Prosthetic Dentistry, Department of Neuroscience, University of Pisa, Italy. [E-Mail: salve106@inwind.it ]

PMID: 17508633

Several studies have reported an involvement of the stomatognathic system [mouth, teeth, jaws and pharynx] in the course of Fibromyalgia (FM) similar to that which characterizes temporomandibular disorders (TMD). [TMD affects the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull, and are often painful.] The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the clinical features of stomatognathic dysfunction in patients with FM and TMD.

Ninety-three FM patients underwent an assessment according to the [research diagnostic criteria] RDC/TMD guidelines. Prevalence of the different RDC/TMD diagnoses and some clinical parameters of FM patients were compared with those of 181 patients affected by TMD. Seventy-four (79.6%) FM patients presented at least one RDC/TMD diagnosis and showed lower mean maximum voluntary and passive mouth opening values than TMD patients.

Moreover, 34 FM patients presented with trigger and/or tender points.

Results of the present study confirm the high rate of involvement of the stomatognathic system in the course of FM and support the need for a careful multidisciplinary approach to patients with TMD, including the rheumatologist.