Temporomandibular disorders

Abstract:

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are the most common orofacial pain disorders of non - dental origin. They occur primarily in adults between the ages of 20 and 40, more often in women. The classic triple clinical signs of TMD include: chewing muscle and/or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, sounds in the TMJ, and limited movement of the lower jaw, especially when opened. TMD is probably due to a combination of several risk factors such as trauma, parafunctional habits, genetic factors, excessive response to stress, increased body response to pain due to the changes in neural pathways, etc. Detailed clinical exam makes the basis of diagnostics, and there is rarely a need for additional diagnostic methods, such as magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography. Treatment methods include cognitivebehavioral, physical, and pharmacological therapy and the use of occlusal splints, with the aim of suppressing pain and restoring the function of the jaw.

Key words:
occlusal splint; orofacial pain; oxidative stress; temporomandibular disorders