Does Postgraduate Education Deepen Temporomandibular Disorders Insights for Dental Professionals?

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of postgraduate education on the comprehension of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs) among dental professionals. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted, involving 348 dental professionals, including students and practicing dentists, categorized based on their educational background into two groups: bachelor's degree or lower (Group B) and master's degree or higher (Group M). Questionnaires were utilized to assess attitudes and knowledge across four TMDs-related domains. Statistical analysis was performed to compare responses between groups and identify differences in TMDs comprehension. Results: Among the 348 respondents, who participated in the study, 183 were students and 165 were practicing dentists, yielding a response rate of 79% (348/440). In the dentist group, 11 statements across every TMDs-related domain exhibited statistically significant differences in responses between Group B and Group M (p < 0.05). Only 2 responses from Group M conflicted with the standard answers, whereas Group B had 9 conflicting responses. In the student group, 11 statements also showed statistically significant differences between Group B and Group M (p < 0.05). Group M had no conflicting responses with the standard answers, while Group B had 7 conflicting responses. Conclusions: Postgraduate education deepened dental professionals' understanding of TMDs. Students improved more in the domains of "diagnosis" and "treatment and prognosis," whereas practicing dentists enhanced more in the "etiology" domain. To further advance postgraduate education, there is a need for more systematic course designs for TMDs, emphasizing the enhancement of knowledge related to examination methods and treatment options.