Are dental practitioners prepared to recognize stomatognathic movement disorders? A cross-sectional study of knowledge, diagnostic confidence, and educational needs

BACKGROUND: Stomatognathic movement disorders (SMDs) are uncommon but clinically significant neurological conditions that frequently present with orofacial manifestations. Because affected patients may initially seek care from dental practitioners, limited awareness of these disorders could contribute to diagnostic confusion with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and may have implications for timely referral and appropriate patient management. This study evaluated dental practitioners' knowledge, diagnostic confidence, and educational preparedness regarding SMDs. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among dental practitioners using a validated self-administered online questionnaire. Knowledge scores were calculated out of 25 points and expressed as percentages. Comparative analyses were performed across educational levels using one-way ANOVA, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 156 dental practitioners participated. Mean knowledge scores differed significantly across academic level (Bachelor: 44.05%, Master: 48.95%, Doctorate: 63.71%; p < 0.001). Doctoral-level education independently predicted adequate knowledge (OR = 8.54, 95% CI: 2.09-34.97; p = 0.003), whereas master's-level showed no significant effect. Knowledge gaps were observed in several domains, particularly in distinguishing SMDs from TMDs and in the management of oromandibular dystonia. Only a minority of participants correctly recognized that temporomandibular joint radiographs are not routinely required prior to treatment. Self-reported clinical confidence was generally low, with only 1.1% of general dentists reporting the ability to independently manage suspected SMD cases. Nevertheless, 94.9% of participants supported integrating SMD-related content into dental curricula. CONCLUSION: The surveyed dental practitioners demonstrated important knowledge gaps regarding SMDs. These findings highlight opportunities to strengthen undergraduate and continuing dental education in the recognition, differentiation from TMDs, and appropriate referral of patients with suspected SMDs.