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.