1MDS, Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Luxmi Bai Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Patiala
2MDS, Department of Endodontics and Conservative dentistry, Dr H S J Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Punjab University, Chandigarh
3MDS, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Swami Devi Dayal Hospital and Dental College Barwala, Panchkula
*Address for correspondence: Dr Mandeep Kaur Bhullar, MDS, Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Luxmi Bai Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Patiala. Email: mkbhullar@yahoo.co.in
Online published on 18 June, 2013.
The temporomandibular joint is a subject of perennial dental interest. To manage masticatory disorders effectively, one must understand the numerous types of TMJ problems that can exist and the variety of etiologies that cause them. Temporomandibular disorders have multifactorial etiology with malocclusion and emotional stress being two major factors. TMDs can be classified as Masticatory Muscle Disorders, Disc-Interference Disorders, Inflammatory Disorders, Chronic Mandibular Hypomobility, Growth Disorders. The diagnosis of the disorders involves examination of three basic structures i.e. muscles, TMJs, and dentition. The treatment modalities that suggested for TM Disorders vary enormously over a great spectrum. All the treatment methods being used for TM disorders can be categorized generally into definitive therapy and supporting therapy. A broader perspective and a more scientific approach to the study of stomatognathic system anatomy and physiology will achieve a more comprehensive understanding of functions and dysfunctions of this vital complex.
Malocclusion, Stomatognathic system, Splint, Temporomandibular disorders
