Etiology and Clinical Management of Temporomandibular Disorders

Abstract

Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) disorders are a group of morphological and functionally abnormal degenerative musculoskeletal problems. Limited or divergent movement, painful joint sounds, articular, muscular, or neural pain involving the joint are the hallmarks of the joint’s pathology. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) have a broad spectrum. Various biological, environmental, social, and psychosomatic stimuli comprise the complex etiology of TMD. Mechanically induced remodeling, while progressive and regressive, is a physiological development initially. Osteoarthritis arises when the joint's rebuilding capability has been exceeded. The TMJ exhibits typical osteoarthritic changes, such as flattening of fossae, reduced pronunciation of articular eminence, reduced condyle proportions, and thicker disk. Decreased adaptability in the articular tissues or severe or recurrent physical stress on the joint’s tissues can also cause degenerative remodeling, that is noted in pathologic TMJs. It has been determined that non-invasive treatment options should be investigated first for patients looking to manage their temporomandibular disorders symptoms. However, there is a demand for more intrusive treatments because to the temporomandibular joint's complexity and the incapacitating nature of advanced-stage disease. Enhanced scope of movement, diminished synovitis, and the prevention of additional degeneration of joint surfaces are the foremost goals of the approaches used in managing TMD.