Objective: The aim of this study was to determine if there is an association between violin playing and the presence of signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
Study design: We studied a group of violinists in the Murcia region of Spain, who were examined for TMD. The results were compared with those from a random control group who did not play any musical instrument. The groups were matched by age and gender. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS 15.0 statistical software.
Results: Compared with the control subjects, the violinists as a group had significantly more pain in maximum mouth opening (P < .005), parafunctional habits (P = .001), and occurrence of temporomandibular joint sounds (P < .005) as determined by chi-squared.
Conclusions: Violin playing appears to be a factor associated with TMD-related findings.
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