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:
- Register a new account/login.
- Once logged in, select 'Create a new application'.
- 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.
- Select a start date.
- 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.
Professor Sasha Scambler
Email: sasha.scambler@kcl.ac.uk
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