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Neurophysiologic studies of temporomandibular joint dysfunction
Oral Sciences Reviews
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction may not stem from condyle displacement or malocclusion. Instead, central nervous system hyperactivity in jaw muscles could cause damage, leading to pain and dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Neurology
- Dentistry
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a common clinical issue.
- Existing theories often link TMJ dysfunction to condylar displacement or dental malocclusion.
- The physiological underpinnings require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the experimental evidence for proposed physiological causes of TMJ dysfunction.
- To investigate the role of muscle hyperactivity and its origins in TMJ dysfunction.
- To correlate central nervous system activity with TMJ dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing experimental and clinical evidence.
- Analysis of physiological mechanisms related to jaw muscle activity.
- Evaluation of the link between malocclusion, reflex mechanisms, and muscle hyperactivity.
Main Results:
- Little evidence supports condylar displacement as a primary cause of TMJ dysfunction.
- Experimental data offers some support for muscle hyperactivity, but not clearly linked to malocclusion via reflexes.
- Growing evidence suggests central nervous system origin for jaw muscle hyperactivity.
Conclusions:
- Centrally induced hyperactivity of jaw closing muscles may be sufficient to cause muscle damage.
- This muscle damage can lead to impaired function, local pain, and referred pain.
- Revising the understanding of TMJ dysfunction etiology is warranted.