Assessment of Knowledge and Self-Awareness about Temporomandibular Joint Disorders among Dental Students

Abstract

Abstract Objectives This Study Aimed To Find The Relationship Between Lack Of Knowledge And Self-Awareness About Temporomandibular Disorders (Tmds) And Their Signs And Symptoms Among Dental Students Of College Of Dentistry, Jazan University, Jazan, KSA. Materials and Methods  A self-administered structured questionnaire was used to assess the demographic variables, information regarding self-awareness and knowledge about TMDs among dental students. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using the IBM SPSS version 20.0 software. Statistical Analysis  The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using the IBM SPSS version 20.0 software. Descriptive statistics, that is, frequencies and percentages were computed. The comparative analysis was done using Chi-square statistical analysis. Results  Out of 406 participants, 44.08% were male and 55.91% were female. Also, 329 were undergraduate students and 77 were interns. Almost a similar percentage of undergraduates and interns were suffering with trismus, articular sounds, pain, and arthralgia. Interns had more incidence of injuries of the head and neck, and had undergone orthodontic treatment, with a significant difference statistically ( p  < 0.05). A significant relation ( p  < 0.05) was observed between responses, with interns having better knowledge regarding investigations and treatment interventions. Conclusion  A direct relationship exists between the level of knowledge about temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and TMDs and self-awareness of its signs and symptoms. A thorough knowledge is required among the students to investigate, diagnose, and treat TMDs at early stages.