The relation of temporomandibular disorders and dental occlusion: a narrative review

Abstract

Objective: The term temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompasses a variety of disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJD) and the associated musculature (MMD). Occlusion and its role in the genesis of TMDs is one of the most controversial topics in this arena. The objective of the narrative review was to summarize the implications of TMDs and its relationship to dental occlusion in two scenarios: 1) TMD as an etiologic factor in dental occlusal changes; 2) The role of dental occlusion as a causative factor in the genesis of TMDs.

Data sources: Indexed databases were searched from January 1951 to August 2021 using the terms TMJ, TMD, temporomandibular disorders, temporomandibular joint, and dental occlusion.

Conclusion: There is lack of good primary research evaluating true association and showing the cause-and-effect relationship between dental occlusion and TMD. Systematic reviews suggest that the role of occlusion as a primary factor in the genesis of TMDs is low to very low. However, a variety of TMDs can lead to secondary changes in dental occlusion. Distinction between the two is paramount for successful management.

Keywords: occlusion; temporomandibular disorders; temporomandibular joint.