41^st Asian Dental & Oral Health Conclave

Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)

Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) refer to a diverse group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the muscles of mastication, and the associated structures. These disorders are characterized by pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, often leading to significant limitations in jaw movement and affecting quality of life. TMD is considered one of the most common causes of orofacial pain after dental pain, with a higher prevalence among women, especially those aged 20–40 years. The TMJ acts as a hinge that connects the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull, allowing movements required for speaking, chewing, and yawning. TMD can arise due to multiple factors such as bruxism (teeth grinding), trauma, arthritis, malocclusion, psychological stress, or structural abnormalities in the joint. Symptoms include jaw pain or tenderness, clicking or popping sounds, difficulty in opening or closing the mouth, earaches, headaches, and facial pain. Due to its multifactorial nature, diagnosis and treatment require a multidisciplinary approach. Additionally, the psychological aspects of TMD—such as the impact of anxiety and depression—will be addressed, along with the importance of a biopsychosocial model in patient care.Participants will also gain insights into the current classification systems of TMD, including the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD), which aid in standardizing diagnosis and facilitating research. Surgical interventions for severe TMD cases, including TMJ replacement and disc repositioning, will also be covered in detail.