Methods for dealing with malocclusion taking the temporomandibular joints and the masticatory muscles into consideration

Abstract

Diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) must be performed with understanding the diversity of malocclusions observed in patients with TMD, because there are various malocclusions such as those acting as the cause of temporomandibular disorders and secondary malocclusions caused by the pathological changes of temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and muscles in TMD patients. In the present article, the outline of countermeasure against malocclusions in consideration of the state of TMJ and masticatory muscles was explained. The broad viewpoint in consideration of influences of condylar position in TMJ and activities muscle-nerve system on occlusion is required for daily clinical practice of general dentistry not limited to TMD. Therefore, understanding how the occlusal treatment in TMD should be will also be useful for skills in occlusal treatments for general patients in dentistry.