Temporomandibular joint function and its effect on concepts of occlusion

Many of the premises of dentistry that have evolved empirically have been re-evaluated in the light of newly-developed concepts of TMJ function. Centric relation, although duplicable, may not necessarily be correct. A "functional" centric relation exists when the TMJ radiographs can be correlated with the occlusal findings, in which case, the retruded classical centric relation should be used. When a "dysfunctional" centric relation is present (no correlation between the TMJ radiographs and occlusal findings), the most retruded position should not be used and a therapeutic centric occlusion should be created by the dentist. Subclinical TMJ dysfunction occurs more frequently than commonly thought, because TMJ radiographs are not routinely used. Retruded condylar displacements can be easily overlooked, because the lateral pterygoid muscle has relatively few stretch receptors compared to the elevator muscles of the mandible. Condylar retrusion, therefore, would not necessarily cause lateral pterygoid spasm as might be expected. The exact mechanism of the TMJ suspension system is unknown, although experimental evidence has shown that the condyle can be displaced superiorly with posterior unsupported muscle force. This indicates that the immutability of the condylar path under varying clinical conditions is questionable. Due to the superior displacement characteristics of the TMJ, the condyle does not act as the fulcrum in mandibular kinetics. The fulcrum, therefore, shifts to the teeth and/or bolus, depending on the specific situation. In either instance, whether considering bruxism or mastication, for most patients, an occlusion based on group function is preferable to a canine-protected occlusion to insure TMJ health. Scientifically, no one scheme of occlusion or articulation has been proven to be superior to any other scheme; therefore, the choice is a matter of the personal preference of the dentist.