Specialists' perception and opinion about self-medication of patients with temporomandibular disorders and orofacial pain

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular disorders are considered the primary cause of chronic orofacial pain. Many patients consider self-medication a fast and adequate means to solve the pain problem and do not look for professional assistance. In spite of the considerable clinical implication of self-medication for temporomandibular disorders, the subject is poorly discussed in the literature. This study aimed at evaluating, by means of focus group, the opinion and perception of temporomandibular disorders/orofacial pain specialists about self-medication associated to temporomandibular disorders. METHODS: Focal group is a qualitative methodology technique which, by means of participants interaction, aims at collecting data as from a discussion focused on specific topics. By means of speech, subjects freely express their knowledge, beliefs, attitudes and perceptions contributing to deepen the knowledge about a core subject. Participated in the study five temporomandibular disorders/orofacial pain specialists and a moderator who led the discussion. The following topics were addressed: temporomandibular disorders, orofacial pain, used drugs, opinions/ attitudes with regard to self-medication, assistance/management of temporomandibular disorders. Speeches were recorded in audio and video for further data analysis. RESULTS: Self-medication associated to temporomandibular disorders was pointed by specialists as extremely frequent and noxious to the disease, being highlighted excessive analgesic consumption and more frequent self-medication for muscular presentations. CONCLUSION: The clinical impact of self-medication to treat temporomandibular disorders was emphasized, highlighting the influence of the practice in worsening and even chronicity of the disorder.