Aspectos emocionais e perfis cognitivos (personalidade) na dor orofacial e disfunção temporomandibular

Abstract

Chronic orofacial pain and temporomandibular dysfunction constitute public health problems of common interest to Psychology and Dentistry. This research presents an analysis of the psychological repercussions of chronic orofacial pain and temporomandibular dysfunction. The objective was to understand the manifestation of chronic orofacial pain and temporomandibular dysfunction in patients from the Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Dysfunction Clinic of the Faculty of Dentistry at the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU). The method is quantitative and qualitative in nature, and the research consisted of three stages: bibliographic review, document analysis, and application of the instruments – Personality Belief Questionnaire – Short form (PBQ-SF) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale - EADS-21. Thirty-six patients, selected by convenience, participated in the research. The results indicate a greater significance of orofacial pain and temporomandibular dysfunction in patients with manifestations of depressive, anxious, and stress disorders, as well as distorted beliefs. These comorbidities, when combined, reveal a reality that requires the integration of Psychology with Dentistry. Based on the study, it is concluded that Psychology combined with Dentistry can produce more effective results for patients than when used in isolation. Culturally, pain is primarily perceived from a medical perspective, which does not eliminate the involvement and determination of psychological factors. A holistic approach thus allows for greater resolution of the issues raised.