Skip to main content
KBS_Icon_questionmark link-ico

 

Experiences of people living with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Project details

First supervisor: Professor Sasha Scambler

Mode of study: Full-time or part-time

Project duration: 3 years if full-time

Eligibility: Home and Overseas 

Funding: Self-funded

Start date: Open until suitable candidate is found

Application deadline: Open until suitable candidate is found

Reference number:  2025/06/SS3/DOCS

Project description

It has been suggested that TMJ disorders may account for as much as thirty billion dollars a year of lost productivity in the US, and yet we know little about the social implications of this group of conditions.   TMJ disorders cause significant pain in the joint and surrounding tissues which can be experienced as either constant or intermittent pain.  For people living with TMJ disorders the impact of the condition can affect multiple areas of daily life and last over an extended period of time.  This is consistent with the definition of a chronic or long-term condition. 

There is a substantial body of research within sociology exploring people’s experiences of living on a day to day basis with a wide variety of chronic illnesses.  This body of work has resulted in the development of a number of themes which are common to the experiences of people living with common and less common chronic illnesses and include uncertainty, biographical disruption and the impact on the wider family.    

The aim of this study is to undertake qualitative interviews to develop an understanding of the impact of TMJ on the daily lives of people living with atypical facial pain. 

Research training

  • Qualitative research training
  • Systematic review training

Person specification

  • An interest in social and behavioural sciences would be an advantage
  • An interest in disability or long term conditions
  • Research skills

Next steps

Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss projects with the first supervisor prior to submitting an application. 

Please apply online at apply.kcl.ac.uk following these steps:

  1. Register a new account/login.
  2. Once logged in, select 'Create a new application'.
  3. Enter ‘Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD (Full-time or part-time)' under 'Choose a programme'. Please ensure you select the correct mode of study.
  4. Select a start date.
  5. Please note: Applicants must include the project reference number (2025/06/SS3/DOCS) in the 'Research proposal' and 'Funding (point 5)' sections of the application.

Contact for further information

Professor Sasha Scambler

Email: sasha.scambler@kcl.ac.uk

Back to Research Projects main page.

 


Study at King’s

Sign up for further information

Receive email updates about our courses, events, fees and funding, studying in London, how to apply and more.

Sign up