KNOWLEDGE ON TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS AMONG DENTISTS IN CHENNAI, TAMILNADU.

Corresponding Author:
Dr. K. Ranjith,
#13/4, K. K. St., Chinna Natham,
Chengalpattu-603002, Tamilnadu.
E-mail: drranjith84@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is one of the most common problem in dentistry. TMD problems hamper the day-to-day activities of the affected individuals. Even though TMD problems cause immense compromises in the quality of lives of the affected individuals, the knowledge regarding these TMD problems among dentists are less prevalent.

The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge regarding aetiology, signs, symptoms, diagnosis and treatments for TMD problems among dentists in Chennai.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 268 general dental practitioners and specialists in Chennai. A questionnaire consisting of 20 questions regarding aetiology, signs, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of TMD problems was used to assess the knowledge of the dentists. The responses were coded and subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS 17.0 software. A comparison between level of knowledge among General dentists and Specialist using Chi-square test was done.

RESULTS

The study population comprised of 131 (49%) general dental practitioners and 137 (51%) specialists. The results showed that the TMD specialists had significantly more knowledge than the general dental practitioners (P<0.15). Only about 11 (8.4%) of GDPs and 6 (4.4%) of specialists had low level of knowledge. 80 (61.1%) of GDPs and 74 (54%) of specialists had relatively low knowledge. Fair level of knowledge was observed in 40 (30.5%) of GDPs and 56 (40.9%) of specialists.

CONCLUSION

The study revealed that specialists in TMD were more knowledgeable than general dentists. With increasing experience, the knowledge of the dentists amplified. To increase the knowledge among general dentists, continued dental education programs coupled with scientific deliberations are necessary.

KEYWORDS

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, Dentists, Aetiology, Knowledge.