TMD: it's our responsibility

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a reality. Surveys place the incidence at about 20-50%. For decades debate has raged as to whether this is a medical or dental problem. Scientific study of anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, and objective analysis with kinesiology, electromyography and sonography, along with case history all point to the same thing; occlusion affects the joint and the muscles. This is our profession's "crown jewel". We diagnose, construct and modify our patient's occlusion. It is about time we all agree, understand, take responsibility and start cooperating in preventing and treating this common malady that seriously affects the quality of life of many.