Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and mandibular anatomy and function have
long been topics of great interest to dental scientists and clinicians.
Temporomandibular joints are load bearing and susceptible to overload.
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a collective term embracing a
number of clinical problems that involve the masticatory musculature,
the temporomandibular joints and associated structures, or both.The
treatment must be based on a correct diagnosis, established from
information on possible etiologic factors, signs and symptoms of each
patient. The clinical protocol for TMD patients varies according to the
level of damage of muscle and TMJ structures, clinical symptoms and
duration of the problem.