Changes in mandibular position and occlusal contacts resulting from a pathological condition of the temporomandibular joint

Abstract

In this paper, the change of mandibular position and occlusal contacts as a result of a pathological condition of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are illustrated with its management. There are two pathological conditions of TMJ disease. One is a pathological condition with reversible change of mandibular position and occlusal contacts such as abnormal tension of the masticatory muscles and/or inflammation of the TMJ etc. The other condition resulting in irreversible change can be e.g. degenerative joint disease of the TMJ, idiopathic/progressive condylar resorption etc. When the pathological condition of the masticatory system is a reversible phenomenon with temporarily an occlusal change, application of irreversible treatments such as occlusal equilibration etc. will be causing serious damage like an artificial occlusal problem. On the other hand, when the pathological condition of the TMJ is an irreversible phenomenon, the evolution is uncertain and no guideline for proper timing of intervention and appropriate treatment methods exist. This paper aims at providing a good opportunity to organize the reader’s knowledge of the management of a change of mandibular position and occlusal contacts following pathological condition caused by TMJ and masticatory muscle.