A review of the disorders of the temperomandibular joint

Temperomandibular joint (TMJ) diseases and disorders refer to a complex and poorly understood set of conditions, manifested by pain in the area of the jaw and associated muscles, and limitations in the ability to make the normal movements of speech, facial expression, eating, chewing, and swallowing. It has been estimated that 25% of the general population suffer from TMJ related symptoms and only 2% of them seek treatment. General joint and muscle diseases, psychological and psychosocial factors, and local influences such as occlusal disturbances, parafunctional activities, that is, bruxism, and traumas, can affect the condition of the TMJ. This article describes the functional anatomy, classification, aetiopathology, and management of this condition in detail.