Otolaryngeal and Oropharyngeal Conditions: Temporomandibular Disorders

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) is a collective term for a group of heterogeneous musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) complex, masticatory muscles, and surrounding osseous structures. TMDs affect 5% to 12% of the US population, with a peak incidence at ages 45 to 65 years. Common clinical manifestations include facial pain, ear pain, headache, TMJ discomfort, and adventitious sounds. The etiologies of TMDs are multifactorial and include behavioral, social, emotional, and occlusive factors. Common causes of TMDs are myofascial pain and dysfunction, articular disk displacement, and degenerative joint conditions. In most cases, the diagnosis can be made based on the history and physical examination. In the absence of trauma, imaging typically is reserved for patients with chronic TMDs. Initial management includes education, self-management, behavioral therapy, and physical therapy. Occlusal devices are recommended for management of sleep bruxism or diurnal clenching. Adjunctive pharmacotherapies include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants. (This is an off-label use of some NSAIDs and an off-label use of benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants.) Intra-articular injections have been used alone or with arthrocentesis. Patients who do not benefit from these therapies should be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.