Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Multidimensional Review of Etiopathogenesis and Treatment Modalities

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) is a comprehensive term that encompasses various clinical disorders that involve the masticatory musculature or temporomandibular (TM) joints and associated musculoskeletal structures. TMDs are one of the more common causes of facial pain other than the odontogenic origin. TMDs are of multifactorial etiology and are characterized by multiplicity of clinical signs and symptoms therefore, TMDs diagnosis and management are extremely complex for the clinician. Diagnostic criteria are used from a clinician perspective to achieve an accurate diagnosis based on a multiaxial diagnostic model. The emphasis is on a medical multi-disciplinary model similar to models used for other musculoskeletal disorders and involves the patient in physical and behavioral management of his or her predicament. The majority of TMD patients obtain excellent symptom relief from non-invasive reversible management. A depth understanding of the disorder and its associated tissues and etiopathology is essential for the development of an effective treatment plan.