Craniomandibular practice: the state of the art; definition and diagnosis.

Craniomandibular (CMA) practice is in a state of confusion, primarily because there is no consensus about the nature and causes of craniomandibular disorders. A strong controversy exists between the proponents of the myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome and the occlusal dysfunction syndrome, yet neither syndrome has been scientifically proven. To the contrary, problems such as internal derangement, degenerative arthritis, and other forms of arthritic diseases appear to be significant causes of CMA dysfunction and pain.It is recommended that curriculum be established to redefine and classify craniomandibular problems in a logical and scientific manner. It is suggested that the general categories include developmental abnormalities, diseases, and dysfunctions. After the various problems have been specifically defined and classified, the etiology can be studied scientifically, and treatments can be applied more appropriately.