Evaluating salivary cortisol levels in patients with temporomandibular disorder

Assessment of Salivary Cortisol As a Biomarker in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder

Observational University of Coimbra · NCT06874868

This study is testing if people with Temporomandibular Disorders have higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their saliva compared to those without the condition.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Coimbra Academic / other
Locations1 site (Coimbra, Coimbra District)
Trial IDNCT06874868 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess whether patients with Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) exhibit elevated levels of salivary cortisol compared to individuals without the disorder. Participants will be evaluated using the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) to classify them into study and control groups. Saliva samples will be collected from participants to measure cortisol levels, providing insights into the potential link between TMD and psychological factors such as anxiety. The study will take place at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Coimbra.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients attending the dental clinic at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Coimbra who have been diagnosed with TMD.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, minors, or non-autonomous individuals will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of the relationship between cortisol levels and TMD, potentially leading to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on cortisol as a biomarker in psychological disorders, this specific approach in relation to TMD is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients who attend the dental clinic of the Faculty of Medicine of University of Coimbra

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant women, minors and non-autonomous individuals

Where this trial is running

Coimbra, Coimbra District

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Temporomandibular Joint DisorderTemporomandibular disordersTMDCortisol
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.