Temporomandibular Disorders and Climacteric Disorders in Argentina: Advances and Challenges for Comprehensive Care

In 2024, the Stomatognathic System (ES) and Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) acquired a particular relevance in Argentina due to the demographic, economic and health changes affecting its constantly changing population. The aging population structure and the increase in life expectancy generated direct implications in the prevalence and management of TMDs, especially in women during climacteric and menopause. The socioeconomic context presented contrasts, with growing access to health services thanks to public policies focused on primary health care, although inequalities persisted between urban and rural areas. These inequalities affected the quality of the specialized treatments needed for TMDs, aggravating the situation of vulnerable women due to economic barriers and lack of information. During the climacteric period, hormonal changes had a negative impact on oral and maxillofacial health, exacerbating TMDs, which are more prevalent in women than in men, with a ratio of three to one. Factors such as emotional stress and psychological disorders, intensified by inflation and economic uncertainty, played a crucial role in the etiology of TMDs. The importance of preventive strategies, such as educational campaigns and professional training to identify and treat TMDs early was highlighted. However, the limitations of the public health system and the high costs of specialized treatments restricted their scope. Despite advances in academic training and interdisciplinary approach, the need for more comprehensive public policies that prioritize women's health became evident. Argentina faced the challenge of consolidating an equitable model that would guarantee access to effective treatments, allowing women in climacteric conditions to live with dignity and wellbeing