Temporomandibular joint dysfunction

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD, TMJD) is a spectrum of disorders relating to pain and dysfunction of the muscles of mastication (the muscles that move the jaw) and the temporomandibular joints (the joints which connect the mandible to the skull). The major common presenting symptoms are pain, alterations in the range of mandibular movement, and/or noises from the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) during function. Although TMD is not life-threatening, it can be detrimental to quality of life, especially in the form of chronic pain. In this article, the term temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is taken to mean any disorder that affects the temporomandibular joint or masticatory muscles, and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD), but sometimes TMJD is taken to mean dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint. However, there is no single, globally accepted term or definition concerning this topic. TMDs have a range of causes and often co-occur with a number of overlapping medical conditions, including headaches, fibromyalgia, back pain, and irritable bowel. However, these factors are poorly understood, and there is disagreement as to their relative importance. There are many treatments available, although there is a general lack of evidence for any treatment in TMD, and no widely accepted treatment protocol. Common treatments include provision of occlusal splints, psychosocial interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy, physical therapy, and pain medication or others. Most sources agree that irreversible treatment should generally be avoided. The prevalence of TMD in the global population is 34%. It varies by continent: the highest rate is in South America at 47%, followed by Asia at 33%, Europe at 29%, and North America at 26%. About 20% to 30% of the adult population are affected to some degree. Usually people affected by TMD are between 20 and 40 years of age, and it is more common in females than males. TMD is...