Rehabilitation of temporomandibular pain dysfunction syndrome – A case report

Abstract

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are a subgroup of craniofacial pain problems that involve the  TMJ, masticatory muscles, and associated head and neck musculoskeletal structures. Causes of TMD include congenital defects and growth abnormalities, arthritic conditions, intra articular soft tissue abnormalities, tumours, trauma, chronic dislocations and infections. For a diagnosis of TMD, patients must have a history of facial pain combined with physical findings, supplemented by radiographic or imaging data when indicated. General management aims at relief of pain and restoration of jaw mobility and impaired chewing function. This includes several options such as occlusal appliances, pharmacotherapy, physical therapy, and behavioural management. The aim of this paper is to document the management of a patient with TMD at the Restorative Dentistry clinic of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital with a repositioning occlusal appliance.