PERCEPTION ABOUT THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS TREATED IN THE TMD-DOF SERVICE OF THE SPECIALIZED CARE OF SUS/BH

Abstract

Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD) is a complex and multifactorial type of orofacial pain. Understanding the subjective nature of pain perception, associated social and clinical factors, the quality of care provided, and the monitoring of individuals form a fundamental set for the success of treatment. The objective of this study was to understand the lived realities of patients treated with TMD for access to specialized services and their perception about the use of the specialized public service of the Unified Health System (SUS) of the city of Belo Horizonte (BH), Minas Gerais (MG) and its treatment. In this qualitative study, 13 individual interviews were conducted with a semi-structured script based on Hellerian theory in its theoretical framework of daily life, which was before or after treatment consultations during the period of 2021 and 2022. The analysis of the narratives was performed through coding and categories. Two main themes can be identified from the results: access to specialized services and perception of treatment. There were common reports about patients' lack of knowledge about the TMD specialty and general dentists' limited knowledge about TMD, as well as difficulties faced in accessing specialists within the referral system. There were also repeated reports about the receptiveness to treatment being greater when there is an indication for a procedure with intervention, and also about the value given to care by the SUS and the good care provided by professionals. In conclusion, it was clear that the TMD specialty is still little known, and that there are still difficulties faced in accessing specialists within the referral system.