Comparing the Knowledge and Awareness of Dental Students, Dental Practitioners and Patients About Botulinum Toxin and Its Therapeutic Applications in Temporomandibular Disorders.

[BACKGROUND] This study aims to assess the awareness of botulinum toxin (BTX), a treatment for temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and bruxism, among patients, dental students and dental practitioners.

[METHODS] Over a 7-month period (September 2023-March 2024), a paper-based questionnaire was distributed to randomly selected patients, dental students, and practitioners at the Griffith University Dental Clinic (GUDC) in Queensland, Australia. The questionnaire assessed participants' knowledge and awareness of BTX as a treatment for TMD and bruxism.

[RESULTS] A total of 325 participants completed the questionnaire, comprising 171 patients, 130 students and 24 dental practitioners. Dental practitioners demonstrated the highest knowledge and awareness surrounding the uses of BTX in TMD treatment. While students had less knowledge than practitioners, their understanding of BTX increased as they advanced through their studies. Both dental practitioners and students favored non-BTX treatments for TMD. Patients exhibited limited awareness of BTX, with female patients being more informed and receptive.

[CONCLUSION] The results from this study highlight the need for increased awareness of BTX for the treatment of TMD, particularly amongst patients and dental students, and to a lesser extent, dental practitioners.