Perceptions of Individuals/Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders About Their Diagnosis, Information Seeking and Treatment Expectations: A Comparative Qualitative Study of Brazilian and Spanish Individuals

Abstract

Background: Considering the significant impact on quality of life and the chronic nature of temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), seeking healthcare is also part of the reality of individuals with this disorder. However, cultural differences and similarities in the experiences of individuals with TMD have not yet been investigated. This study aimed to describe and compare the experiences, beliefs, and sociocultural factors of Brazilian and Spanish individuals with TMD, focusing on their perceptions of the disorder, diagnostic pathways, information-seeking behaviors, and treatment expectations. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted. A purposive sample of 50 participants (25 Brazilian, 25 Spanish), aged 18–50 and diagnosed with TMD according to DC/TMD criteria, was recruited. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Six themes emerged, revealing both similarities and differences between the groups. Brazilian participants reported uncertainty about which professional to consult and difficulty accessing specialized care. In contrast, Spanish participants frequently sought physical therapists as their first option and identified them as primary sources of information. Beliefs about TMD etiology varied across samples. Treatment expectations also differed. Brazilians emphasized the difficulty of obtaining effective care, while Spanish participants perceived physiotherapy as being limited to muscular disorders. Perceptions of occlusal splint effectiveness showed variation between the groups. Conclusions: These findings underscore the necessity of culturally sensitive approaches to patient care that address not only clinical aspects, but also the sociocultural context that influences health behaviors.