Knowledge and clinical attitudes regarding temporomandibular disorders among orthodontists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

OBJECTIVE

To compare temporomandibular disorder (TMDs) knowledge and clinical attitudes between orthodontists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 160 participants (80 per specialty) in Türkiye. A 41-item online questionnaire assessed knowledge across four domains and clinical attitudes. Responses were compared with expert reference rates and between specialties.

RESULTS

Both groups showed substantial knowledge deficiencies, particularly in pathophysiology and chronic pain. OMFS demonstrated significantly higher correct-response rates than orthodontists across multiple items in all four knowledge domains, whereas orthodontists performed better on one pathophysiology item. Clinical attitudes were generally positive; OMFS more frequently supported patient information and counseling, while orthodontists more frequently favored referral of suspected TMD cases.

CONCLUSION

Despite positive clinical attitudes, important TMD knowledge gaps persist in both specialties, with OMFS showing greater overall knowledge. Postgraduate education should reinforce evidence-based, diagnosis-driven, and biopsychosocial TMD management.