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Updated: Aug 26, 2025

Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
[Temporomandibular joint dysfunctions: evolution in patient care]
Laurence May1, Jeannine Blatter1, Aurélien Louvrier1
1Service de chirurgie orale et maxillofaciale, Centre hospitalier universitaire vaudois, 1011 Lausanne.
Temporomandibular joint dysfunctions significantly impact quality of life. Temporomandibular joint prostheses are increasingly recognized as a standard treatment option due to material and management advancements.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthodontics
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunctions are prevalent and affect patient quality of life.
- Treatment options for TMJ disorders are diverse, ranging from conservative to surgical approaches.
- The efficacy and indications for surgical TMJ interventions remain subjects of ongoing debate and evolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolving role of temporomandibular joint prostheses in managing TMJ disorders.
- To highlight advancements in materials and case management contributing to the increased use of TMJ prostheses.
- To assess the shift in the therapeutic paradigm for TMJ dysfunction, incorporating joint prostheses into standard care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on temporomandibular joint prostheses.
- Analysis of trends in TMJ treatment modalities over recent decades.
- Evaluation of material science and surgical case management improvements.
Main Results:
- Temporomandibular joint prostheses have seen significant advancements in materials and surgical techniques.
- The application of TMJ prostheses has expanded, moving beyond a last resort option.
- Improved outcomes and predictability have contributed to the growing acceptance of joint prostheses.
Conclusions:
- Temporomandibular joint prostheses are becoming an integral part of standard TMJ disorder management.
- Continued innovation in biomaterials and surgical protocols will likely further enhance the utility of TMJ prostheses.
- The integration of TMJ prostheses reflects a significant evolution in the surgical treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunctions.
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