Background: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders represent a group of functional and pain-related conditions involving the masticatory system. Increasing evidence suggests that psychological stress may precipitate or exacerbate TMJ dysfunction by promoting muscle hyperactivity, clenching, and bruxism. Objectives: To assess the relationship between psychological stress, sleep pattern, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms among dental students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 233 dental students using a structured questionnaire assessing stress (academic, family, or other), sleep duration, nap habits, presence of jaw pain or stiffness after waking, clicking/popping sounds, chewing discomfort, headache, and night grinding. Data were analyzed using statistical analysis. Chi-square tests were applied to determine associations between stress and TMJ-related variables. Results: Among 233 respondents, 77.3% were females and 22.7% males. A majority (56%) reported experiencing some form of stress during the preceding 30 days, primarily academic stress. Significant associations were found between stress and TMJ pain/stiffness after waking (p = 0.000), stress and clicking/popping sounds (p = 0.023), and stress and discomfort during chewing or yawning (p = 0.141, not significant). Additionally, sleep disturbance (p = 0.005) and night grinding (p = 0.004) were significantly correlated with stress and TMJ symptoms. The number of fingers that could be inserted between the incisors (an indicator of limited mouth opening) also showed a mild association (p = 0.05). Conclusion: Psychological stress exerts a notable influence on TMJ health, particularly by increasing the risk of joint pain, clicking sounds, and parafunctional habits such as bruxism. Early identification of stress-related TMJ manifestations and lifestyle modification may prevent progression to chronic dysfunction.
