Clinical skills development in postgraduate education: approaches to occlusal guards and molar stops in the treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction

Abstract

Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) poses a significant challenge in dentistry, demanding a comprehensive approach in the training of health professionals. This study aims to explore the development of clinical competencies in postgraduate education, focusing on the use of occlusal guards and molar stops in the treatment of TMD. A comprehensive literature review was conducted in scientific databases from March 2013 to March 2023, analyzing 25 relevant studies. The results indicate that occlusal guards are more effective than molar stops, providing neuromuscular stability and reducing symptoms associated with TMD. However, their effectiveness increases when combined with complementary treatments. In addition, it highlights the need to develop advanced clinical competencies in postgraduate programs, with a practical approach that integrates theory and clinical skills, to improve the selection and application of appropriate therapies in the management of TMD.