Analytical Study of Temporomandibular Disorder Prevalence and Its Psychosocial Determinants in University Students in Nigeria

Temporomandibular disorders are associated with psychological stress and have their highest incidence in young adults, yet their prevalence and psychosocial associations in Nigerian university populations are insufficiently characterised. This study analytically examined TMD prevalence and psychosocial determinants across university students in two Nigerian zones: University of Ibadan (South West) and University of Maiduguri (North East). A cross-sectional survey of 480 students (240 per institution) was conducted. TMD diagnosis was based on the DC/TMD Axis I screening questionnaire. Psychosocial dimensions (Axis II) were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-4, Perceived Stress Scale, and Graded Chronic Pain Scale. Regression modelling examined TMD probability in relation to stress, anxiety, and sleep quality scores. TMD symptom prevalence was 28.4 percent (University of Ibadan) and 24.6 percent (University of Maiduguri). Female students showed significantly higher TMD prevalence at both sites. Perceived Stress Scale score was the strongest predictor of TMD probability (OR = 1.18 per unit increase, p < 0.001). Sleep quality significantly moderated the stress-TMD relationship. Academic period (examination vs. non-examination) significantly influenced TMD symptom frequency. Only 8.3 percent of symptomatic students had sought clinical management. The study provides original multi-site characterisation of TMD psychosocial determinants in Nigerian students and recommends that university health services integrate TMD screening, and that dental educators include DC/TMD training in postgraduate curricula. Keywords: temporomandibular disorders, DC/TMD, psychosocial determinants, university students, Nigeria