How Dentists' Personality Traits Affect Communication and Treatment Outcomes in TMD Patients

Temporomandibular disorders are multifactorial conditions often accompanied by psychological distress, chronic pain, and functional limitations. While splint therapy remains a common conservative intervention, patient adherence and satisfaction with treatment can vary widely and are often influenced by interpersonal dynamics between provider and patient.

Emerging literature in medicine and dentistry suggests that provider personality traits play a critical role in shaping communication style, patient engagement, and ultimately clinical outcomes. However, few studies have systematically examined this relationship within dental practice, particularly in the management of TMDs.

This study adopts a prospective, randomized design. Thirty dentists treating TMD patients are assessed for their personality traits using the BFI-2-S, which evaluates five core dimensions: conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion, openness, and negative emotionality. Three hundred TMD patients are randomly assigned to one of the participating dentists and undergo a standardized treatment protocol involving splint therapy. Dentists follow a structured communication and counseling framework aimed at enhancing the quality of interaction and patient education.

Patient outcomes are assessed at baseline and after six months of therapy. The key outcomes include:

Quality of doctor-patient communication, measured using the PCCS,

Treatment satisfaction using a structured questionnaire,

Adherence to splint therapy (hours/day and days/week),

Psychological well-being measured by the DASS-10.

Statistical analyses include correlation to assess the association between dentist personality traits and patient outcomes.

This study has the potential to uncover meaningful links between provider personality and clinical success in TMD management. Results may guide the development of more effective communication protocols, inform training and self-awareness initiatives for dental professionals, and promote patient-centered care grounded in both technical and interpersonal excellence.

Eligibility criteria for dentists included:

• Had at least two years of clinical experience in the management of TMDs.
• Were actively involved in the clinical care of TMD patients at the time of the study.
• Willingness to participate and complete the BFI-2-S personality assessment.

Eligibility criteria for patients included:

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosed with TMDs according to Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) guidelines, specifically disc displacement with reduction.
• Exhibiting symptoms of stress or anxiety, as identified by the baseline DASS-10 screening.
• Prescribed occlusal splint therapy as part of their treatment regimen.

Exclusion criteria

• Cognitive impairments.
• Psychiatric conditions other than anxiety or depression.
• Any condition that could impair the patient's ability to provide informed consent or accurately complete self-report questionnaires.