[The management of functional disturbances of the stomatognathic system]

The management of functional disturbances of the stomatognathic system requires long term follow up. The complexity of managing TMJ dysfunction is reflected in the variety of treatment modalities. Almost all clinicians claim successful results with their treatment, although in our days it seems that simple reversible treatment methods are more favourable than others complicated irreversible technics. Treatment problems and failures, related to mandibular repositioning appliances, surgery and restorative dentistry caused a major shift in ideas concerning the natural history of functional disturbances of the stomatognathic system and suggest the need to reconsider the various approaches to the treatment of the TMJ. The majority of patients improve by simple methods as Biofeedback, Physiotherapy, full arch stabilization splints etc. The dentist should insure patients' compliance and very carefully inform the patient for all the details, the expectations and the complications of treatment, concerning more complicated irreversible technics, such as occlusal adjustment, orthodontics, restorative dentistry, surgery of the TMJ and orthognathic surgery.