How clinicians think: a qualitative exploration of perceptions and management strategies for temporomandibular disorders
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Published on: September 13, 2024
Dina Taimeh1, Yara Flaifl2, Alaa Atef2
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Medicine and Periodontology, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Medicine and Periodontology, The University of Jordan Hospital, Amman, Jordan.
Objectives:
this study aimed to explore the decision-making process of clinicians regarding the management of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and analyze the experiences encountered when managing this group of conditions.
Study Design:
a qualitative design was adopted where semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 healthcare providers specialized in oral medicine or oral (maxillofacial) surgery. They were directed using a topic guide covering subjects such as their experiences with patients with TMD, their perceptions regarding this condition, perceived challenges, management approach and influencing factors. The discussions were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was utilized to analyze the data.
Results:
Five themes were identified: "perceptions and views," "challenges unique to TMD," "general approach to management," "factors influencing treatment decisions," and "barriers and facilitators of a successful outcome."
Conclusions:
Managing temporomandibular disorders remains a complex challenge for healthcare providers. This study described multiple clinician, patient, and healthcare-related obstacles to effective care. The shortage of strong evidence regarding the different management strategies further complicates treatment. While education and conservative management remain cornerstones of treatment, various factors influenced the decision-making process, such as the patients' preferences and circumstances and the clinicians' own specializations and experiences.
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