TMD: it's our responsibility! Part Two

Dentists modify and construct occlusions. This occurs on a daily basis in the disciplines of restorative, fixed and removable prosthetics and orthodontics. These procedures influence the TMJ, the muscles of mastication, the supporting structure of the teeth and the teeth as well. Dentists have an opportunity to not only objectively analyze how they all interrelate, but to create a physiological harmonious relationship. This will reduce a traumatic occlusion to one that is within the histological adaptive range for the tissue to accommodate. This knowledge can be applied to not only help patientsí pain and dysfunction, but to ensure confidence that dentists are not going to be responsible for iatrogenic results. The future of dentistry is not only being able to effectively deal with TMD but to prevent the problems. Management of mandibular whiplash and migraine headaches are also becoming our responsibility. Dentists are the specialists of occlusion. With the technology available to render this quality of care, they must fulfill their obligation to the public, take responsibility and continue to increase their capability. This approach to dentistry provides a new "window of opportunity" as its many applications have yet to be explored.