Are oral and maxillofacial surgeons familiar with temporomandibular disorder?

Abstract

From 1970 to 1990, surgical treatment for temporomandibular disorder (TMD) was actively carried out, and many studies were published in literature and conferences. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons were very interested in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery, and its popularity in academia was high as many papers on related surgical techniques were published. However, it was gradually revealed that conservative treatment could be used for TMD. Various etiologies, the diversity of diagnosis and treatment, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach have been demonstrated for TMD, and the event is less popular among oral and maxillofacial surgeons. In addition, TMD is a self-limiting disorder that shows natural recovery over time. Some specialists believe that the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of TMD are not certain, that it is not a serious disease, and that it will resolve with time, disparaging TMD treatment. TMD is related to all specialties of dentistry, and dental treatment itself is a risk factor. Since TMJ overload is a major causative factor, TMD is highly likely to occur after treatment such as impacted tooth extraction, orthognathic surgery, or maxillofacial trauma. Nevertheless, are oral and maxillofacial surgeons observing patients with long-term followup after such treatment? Are patients well informed about evaluation for TMD before surgical treatment, the possibility of developing TMD as a complication after treatment, and TMD management? If a patient has TMD and is currently being treated or has been treated in the past, TMD is expected to develop after dental treatment. However, healthy patients or unaware, asymptomatic TMD patients require attention from medical staff if TMD occurs after dental treatment. In particular, if a prior diagnosis has not been made, the medical procedure might be considered as the main cause. All oral and maxillofacial surgeons should have a clear concept of the etiology, diagnosis, and various treatments of TMD. In addition, a TMJ evaluation must be performed prior to any dental surgery, and the possibility of developing TMD after surgery must be explained in advance. In addition, if TMD occurs after surgery, appropriate conservative treatment should be considered. In addition, even if TMD does not occur right away, it can occur over time.