Temporomandibular Disorders: Current Concepts and Controversies in Diagnosis and Management

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a group of orofacial pain conditions which are the most common non-dental pain complaint in the maxillofacial region. Due to the complexity of the etiology, the diagnosis and management of TMD remain a challenge where consensus is still lacking in many aspects. While clinical examination is considered the most important process in the diagnosis of TMD, imaging may serve as a valuable adjunct in selected cases. Depending on the type of TMD, many treatment modalities have been proposed, ranging from conservative options to open surgical procedures. In this review, the authors discuss the present thinking in the etiology and classification of TMD, followed by the diagnostic approach and the current trend and controversies in management.

Automated summary

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a group of orofacial pain conditions that are the most common non-dental pain complaint in the maxillofacial region. Due to the complexity of its etiology, diagnosis and management of TMD remain a challenge with lack of consensus. Clinical examination is considered crucial in the diagnosis of TMD, while imaging may serve as a valuable adjunct in selected cases.