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Review
. 2014 Mar;14(1):6-15.
doi: 10.1007/s13191-013-0321-3. Epub 2013 Sep 22.

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis: diagnosis and long-term conservative management: a topic review

Mythili Kalladka  1 , Samuel Quek  2 , Gary Heir  3 , Eli Eliav  4 , Muralidhar Mupparapu  5 , Archana Viswanath  6
Affiliations
Review

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis: diagnosis and long-term conservative management: a topic review

Mythili Kalladka et al. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2014 Mar.

Abstract

Degenerative joint disease (DJD), a common osteoarthritic problem encountered in clinical practice presents as a chronic debilitating disease resulting in altered joint structure due to degradation and loss of articular cartilage, along with changes in the subchondral bone and other soft tissues. DJD is a frequent finding in the Temporomandibular joints (TMJs). Consequently, a good understanding of the use of a diagnostic algorithm will lead to a better control of DJD in the TMJ. The etiopathogenesis of osteoarthritis is complex, and it is associated with multiple risk factors. The condition progresses slowly through different phases with periods of remission and activity finally reaching the burnout phase. Conservative management forms the cornerstone for the treatment of most of these cases. This review attempts to acquaint the dentist with the diagnosis, pathogenesis and general characteristics of the disease while highlighting and updating them with the current conservative treatment algorithms in order to assist in the formulation of a treatment plan for these patients.

Keywords: Conservative management; Degenerative joint disease; Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Table showing the etiopathogenesis of TMJ osteoarthritis in the different phases
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
OPG of three cases of TMJ osteoarthritis The condyles show typical OA changes namely flattening of the superior surface, loss of joint space of the affected joints, bird-beaking,generalized sclerosis of the articular surfaces and changes to the articular eminence as well
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
TMJ coronal and sagittal views of two cases of TMJ osteoarthritis-one with unilateral involvement and other with bilateral TMJ OA. Both are taken with ICAT(R) CBCT machine and displayed with ICATvision software. The condyles show typical OA changes namely flattening of the superior surface, loss of joint space of the affected joints, bird-beaking and generalized sclerosis of the articular surfaces. Most commonly, there will be changes to the articular eminence as well
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Treatment pyramid for TMJ Osteoarthritis
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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