Since December 2019, COVID-19 has rapidly spread worldwide, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it a pandemic and advocate for the widespread use of face masks to mitigate transmission. In this review, we delve into the potential impact of prolonged face mask use on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health, an area that has garnered limited attention amidst COVID-19 research. Research has revealed that improper mask fit and constant readjustment can lead to TMJ abnormalities. Similarly, there is a demonstrated correlation between continuous mask usage and an increased incidence of headaches, temporomandibular pain, and diminished quality of life. Many studies have highlighted discomfort in the preauricular area, headaches, TMJ noises, headache, jaw pain, and muscle fatigue, as well as dermatological disorders, which have been attributed to prolonged mask wear and its impact on TMJ health. Our study catalyzes future research endeavors, urging a deeper exploration of the implications of long-term mask wear, not only in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic but also among occupational groups regularly exposed to extended mask use. By unraveling the complexities of TMJ health in the face of evolving preventive measures, we aim to enhance our understanding of this issue and safeguard the well-being of mask-wearers worldwide.

Aqueous formaldehyde (FA) solution, known as formalin, is currently the primary agent used for preserving tissue samples and anatomical specimens. Formaldehyde is widely used in laboratories and the chemical industry; it also occurs as an air pollutant and endogenous cellular metabolite. The potential carcinogenic effects of formalin on the respiratory tract are well documented. A less recognized consequence of occupational exposure to FA is its detrimental effect on the central nervous system (CNS) and brain function. A literature review was conducted to investigate the effects of FA on the brain. Five databases were searched: PubMed, Web of Science (WoS), Embase, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. To describe the effects of FA exposure and endogenous FA generation, 35 relevant publications were collected and analyzed. The literature review demonstrated that inhalation is the most common route of FA exposure. Several studies have shown that FA may cause hippocampal damage, disrupt melatonin secretion, and induce a wide range of cognitive disorders with varying characteristics and severity. These disorders include memory impairment, disturbances in balance and spatial orientation, learning difficulties, sleep disturbances, impaired judgment, and prolonged reaction times to stimuli. Increased endogenous FA concentration has also been associated with a higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The literature analysis demonstrated the high neurotoxicity of FA, which may lead to numerous neuropsychiatric disorders. We aim to draw attention to the risks associated with the routine use of formalin, particularly among anatomists and pathologists, and to encourage consideration of less harmful alternative preservation agents.

Since December 2019, the COVID-19 virus has rapidly spread worldwide, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it a pandemic and advocate for the widespread use of face masks to mitigate transmission. In this review, we delve into the potential impact of prolonged face mask use on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health, an area that has garnered limited attention amidst COVID-19 research. Research has revealed that improper mask fit, and constant readjustment can lead to TMJ abnormalities. Similarly, there is a demonstrated correlation between continuous mask usage and increased incidence of headaches, temporomandibular pain, and diminished quality of life. Many studies have highlighted discomfort in the preauricular area, headaches, TMJ noises, headache, jaw pain, and muscle fatigue, as well as dermatological disorders that have been attributed to prolonged mask wear and its impact on TMJ. Our study catalyzes future research endeavors, urging a deeper exploration of the implications of long-term mask wear, not only in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic but also among occupational groups regularly exposed to extended mask use. By unraveling the complexities of TMJ health in the face of evolving preventive measures, we aim to enhance our understanding and safeguard the well-being of mask-wearers worldwide.