Online ISSN: 2515-8260

Assessment of awareness level of dentists about role of physiotherapy in diagnosis of TMJ disorders

Main Article Content

Archana Kumari1 , Ritika Agarwal2

Abstract

Background:TMD are musculoskeletal disorders characterized by tenderness, pain, limitations in mandible movements, headache, and clicking within the joint. The present study was conducted to assess awareness level of dentists about role of physiotherapy in diagnosis of TMJ disorders. Materials & Methods:560 dentists of both genders were enrolled. A questionnaire related to thegeneral knowledge, role of physiotherapy in management of TMDs was recorded. Results: There were 380 males and 200 females. Year of experience was 0-5 years in 115, 5-10 years in 145, 10-20 years in 120 and >20 years in 180 dentists. There were 150 General dentist, 130 endodontist, 70 prosthodontists, 8-0 periodontist and 40 oral surgeons. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Treatment methods for TMDs was splint/occlusal guard in 56%, braces in 24%, medication in 15% and other in 5%. Dentists’ referral to other professionals was physiotherapist in 50%, oral medicine in 23%, psychologist in 10%, orthodontist in 7%, speech therapist in 8% and other in 2%. Causes of referral to PT was masticatory muscle tenderness in 40%, neck postural alteration in 30%, headache in 20% and neck pain in 10%. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Most of the dentists has limited knowledge about role of physiotherapy in diagnosis of TMJ disorders.

Article Details