Using paintings to help people describe and manage jaw (TMJ) pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This phase 3, single-center randomized trial at King Abdulaziz University compares routine conservative TMD care with routine care plus an Artistic Pain Exploration (APE) intervention. Participants will be shown selected paintings and guided to choose and discuss images that reflect their pain and experience, alongside standard diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Outcomes measured include pain communication, joint function, and anxiety at baseline and follow-up visits. The intervention is delivered in clinic as an adjunct to standard non-surgical management.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults aged 18 years or older
* Diagnosed with Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) requiring conservative management only and classified as Wilkes' stage I or II
* Able to understand and sign the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients requiring surgical intervention for TMD
* Presence of severe mental illness, such as psychotic disorders or bipolar affective disorders
* Regular use of narcotic (opioid) pain medications

Where it's running

• King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry
  Jeddah, Mecca Region, Saudi Arabia Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Razan M Baabdullah, BDS, MS, FRCDC
• Email: rmsbaabdullah@kau.edu.sa
• Phone: +96655501567

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Occlusal equilibration versus sham therapies for long-term relief of temporomandibular disorder pain — post‑trial follow‑up

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.