O Elo Silencioso: Desvendando a Conexão Sistêmica entre Endometriose e Distúrbios Temporomandibulares na Era da Dor Crônica Feminina

Objective: To review the evidence on the shared pathophysiological mechanisms between endometriosis and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and to propose an integrated care model. Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and Web of Science databases. Results: The prevalence of TMD in women with endometriosis (45-77%) is drastically higher than in the general population (5-12%). Shared mechanisms include hormonal dysfunction (estrogen receptor polymorphisms and progesterone resistance), chronic systemic inflammation (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β), and central nervous system sensitization. Psychosocial comorbidities, such as anxiety and pain catastrophizing, significantly amplify pain perception. Rapid screening tools demonstrate clinical feasibility for early identification of this distress. Conclusion: The connection between endometriosis and TMD is supported by a common pathophysiological basis, requiring a multidisciplinary and integrated clinical approach for effective management.