Development and evaluation of a dental nurse-led acupuncture service for myogenous temporomandibular disorder

Abstract

Aims Acupuncture is an established treatment for myogenous temporomandibular disorder (mTMD). Long waiting times and limited outcome recording highlighted service improvement need. A dental nurse-led acupuncture clinic was introduced to increase access and improve clinical outcomes. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the impact of a dental nurse-led acupuncture service for mTMD. Methods Retrospective data were collected between September 2023 and May 2024, and prospective data after implementation of a dental nurse-led clinic (June 2024–December 2025). Patients received up to six 30-minute acupuncture sessions. Pain was assessed using an 11-point numerical rating scale (NRS) at baseline, visit three, and visit six, and patient-reported improvement using a seven-point Global Impression of Change (GIC) at visits three and six. Outcomes were compared between dentist- and dental nurse-led care. Results In total, 63 patients were treated (32 dentist-led, 31 dental nurse-led), with 40 completing six visits. Following implementation, throughput increased from 1.1 to 4.2 patients treated/month, reducing waiting times by 40 weeks. Mean NRS reduced by 42% over six visits (35.9% dentist-led versus 49% dental nurse-led), and 95% of patients reported GIC improvements. Conclusion The dental nurse-led acupuncture service for mTMD improved access, reduced waiting times, and achieved clinically significant pain reduction.