Knowledge and attitudes of pediatric dentists regarding temporomandibular disorders

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) encompass musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory muscles and other associated structures. While all dentists, regardless of their specialty, should possess a comprehensive understanding of TMD diagnosis and treatment, there is a limited number of studies assessing the knowledge and attitudes of pediatric dentists on this subject. The objective was to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of pediatric dentists regarding the diagnosis and management of TMD in pediatric patients.

This observational, analytical, cross-sectional study included 266 pediatric dentists who completed a 41-item questionnaire. Of these, 35 items assessed knowledge, while six evaluated attitudes. Descriptive statistics were analysed, and the chi-square test was applied for comparisons, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

The mean correct response rate across the four assessed domains was 49.5%. The lowest accuracy was observed in the pathophysiological domain (33%), followed by the psychophysiological domain (50%), the psychiatric disorders domain (64.1%) and the chronic pain domain (50.4%).

Pediatric dentists exhibited limited knowledge of TMD but expressed positive attitudes toward its diagnosis and treatment. Morever, they demonstrated a lack of awareness regarding their role in preventive education on this condition.