Headache and dysfunction of the masticatory system in adolescents

An epidemiologic group of 285 17-year-old adolescents was studied with the aid of a questionnaire for frequency and intensity of headache and for symptoms of dysfunction of the masticatory system. They were also subjected to a functional examination of the masticatory system. Recurrent headaches occurred significantly more often among the girls (18%) than the boys (6%). Girls also reported significantly more intense headaches than boys. Fatigue in the jaws and difficulties in chewing were commoner in those with frequent and more intensive headaches. Tenderness to palpation of the masticatory muscles and impaired mandibular mobility were significantly commoner findings among those with recurrent headaches and those with more intense headaches. Tooth-grinding and clenching were related to frequency but not to intensity of headache. The investigation showed a significant relationship between frequency and intensity of headaches and signs and symptoms of dysfunction of the masticatory system.