Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practices of dental practitioners regarding temporomandibular joint disorders in India

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are one of the major causes of chronic orofacial pain affecting 28-86% of the population. The diagnosis of TMDs is challenging to a considerable number of practitioners and is influenced by their knowledge, attitude and experience. Aim: This study aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding TMDs among TMD experts and general dental practitioners (GDPs) in India. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 dental practitioners (32 TMD experts and 168 GDPs) across India, registered under the Dental Council of India, were included in the survey. A questionnaire consisting of 21 issues with regard to TMDs was designed from relevant standard textbooks. The questionnaire was pretested for validation and distributed personally or through the web designed program. The knowledge and attitude scores of both the groups were assessed and compared. The therapeutic modalities practiced by the groups were also noted. Results: A significant difference was found in the knowledge scores and attitude between TMD experts and GDPs. A significant correlation was found between attitude score and years of experience in both the groups. Both TMD experts and GDPs expressed little confidence in the management of TMDs. About 75% of GDPs expressed concern over an inadequate number of TMD experts. Conclusion: Need for continued updating of knowledge, panel discussions, and revisions of the curriculum in graduate schools was realized.