Psychological assessment and cognitive behavioral therapy in temporomandibular joint disorders: A randomized controlled study

Background: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a comprehensive term used to describe a diverse range of disorders with multiple causes. Psychological factors exhibit variability across different cases based on the diagnostic subgroup of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Objectives: To compare the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in TMD patients to the standard therapy (STD). Methods: Patients underwent psychological assessment by Beck's Inventory of Depression (BDI) and stress symptom rating scale (SSRS). They were randomly divided into STD therapy and CBT. Pre- and post-treatment pain was evaluated by VAS. BDI and SSRS scale scores were done pre- and post-CBT and STD treatment. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were performed to compare the variables pre- and post-CBT and STD treatment. Results: Varying degrees of depression and stress 53.3% and 60%, respectively, were observed in patients with TMDs. A statistically significant difference was seen in the BDI and VAS scores post-CBT (P < 0.001) as compared to SSRS scores. Conclusion: Patients with TMDs are under considerable stress and anxiety. The addition of CBT to standard treatment regimens will enhance the treatment efficacy and help patients to cope with daily activities, ease muscle tension, and improve their quality of life.