A management approach for temporomandibular disorders

Conservative, non invasive and reversible treatment is possible and highly successful for most temporomandibular disorder patients. Unfortunately, at this time it is not possible to provide preventive therapy or predict an 'at risk' group. Perpetuating and aggravating factors can sometimes be identified and eliminated in patients suffering from a TMD. TMD treatment can also be of benefit for chronic headache patients. A logical approach to the management of TMJ disorders has been outlined that emphasises the principle of 'escalation of therapy'. This has the advantage of avoiding overtreatment and maintaining patient confidence if initial attempts fail.