Temporomandibular joint disorders: artificial joint replacements and future research needs

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dental Research

Background:

• Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affect a significant portion of the population, with conservative treatments failing in some cases.
• A distinction exists between TMD (neuromuscular) and TMJ disease/dysfunction (true joint pathology), the latter potentially requiring joint reconstruction.
• Degeneration of the meniscus and bone is common in TMJ pathology, necessitating surgical alternatives like artificial TMJ replacements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of current temporomandibular joint (TMJ) implants.
• To discuss challenges and needs in TMJ research.
• To describe available TMJ surgical procedures and reconstruction materials.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on TMJ implants and surgical procedures.
• Analysis of factors contributing to past clinical failures of TMJ implants.
• Discussion of future research directions and multidisciplinary approaches.

Main Results:

• Artificial TMJ replacements are surgical alternatives for TMJ diseases when conservative treatments fail.
• Past TMJ implant failures are linked to a lack of scientific approach and inadequate basic research.
• Current research is addressing overlooked issues in TMD and TMJ implants.

Conclusions:

• Future TMJ research requires a multidisciplinary approach involving both clinical and non-clinical experts.
• Addressing TMJ problems necessitates a deeper understanding of underlying pathologies and improved remedies.
• Continued development and research into TMJ implants are crucial for improving patient outcomes.