Temporomandibular disorder: A guide for general dental practitioners

Abstract

The presentation of patients with symptoms associated with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) is a common finding in general dental practice. The management of patients with TMDs is often complicated by its multifactorial aetiology. This paper aims to provide a guide for dental practitioners to the clinical examination, diagnosis, and recognition of red flags in relation to TMDs and inform the busy practitioner when to refer patients presenting with TMDs for specialist/secondary care management.

Keywords: Level 1 treatment; Oral surgery; guide for commissioning oral surgery; temporomandibular disorders.