Temporomandibular dysfunction, chronic orofacial pain and oral motor disorders in the 21st century

This article describes the various sensory and motor disorders which afflict the orofacial region. Such information is essential to the modern dentist who wishes to be proficient in the diagnosis of patients with these problems. These abnormalities are broadly separated into three groups of pathologic conditions: Temporomandibular disorders; chronic orofacial pain disorders; and oral motor disorders. Although much more can be said about each reviewed condition, this article focuses on the diagnostic features of each specific disorder within each of these 3 groups. It suggests alternate nomenclature for each disorder, where appropriate. Due to space limitations the article does not cover the procedures for management of each disorder, however, the reader is referred to appropriate references in this regard. The overall intent of the article is to help the dental practitioner recognize and differentiate the above conditions.