Comparison of the efficacy of a questionnaire, oral history, and clinical examination in detecting signs and symptoms of occlusal and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

A comparison of three methods of obtaining information relating to some TMJ signs and symptoms has been made. The taking of an oral history by this examiner was shown to be the least reliable. The acquisition of data by this verbal process is a clinically sophisticated and difficult medical procedure and a major source of error is the bias or preconception that a clinician brings to his observations. Far more effective was a written, self-administered patient questionnaire, which proved quite reliable in detecting the presence of some occlusal habits. This study indicates that the initial use of a self-administered patient questionnaire, even in the hands of an inexperienced dentist, will ensure that certain essential data are obtained and recorded and will result in the discovery that a substantial number of patients have signs and symptoms of occlusal and TMJ dysfunction. The most objective method is of course the direct clinical examination. A combination of these three methods of obtaining information is recommended as an important part of routine occlusal and TMJ examinations.