Treatment of orofacial pain and temporomandibular disorders

The treatment of orofacial pain and temporomandibular disorders has evolved into a multidisciplinary approach using various modes of treatment and other medical specialties as indicated. An excellent four-part, self-directed learning module written by Goddard [1.], King [2.], Williams [3.], and Dean [4.] provides an overview of accepted pain rehabilitation that includes basic science, chronic pain, myofascial pain, cancer pain, and therapeutic options. An outstanding review of the anatomy of the human temporomandibular joint is presented by Piette [5.]. This brief review provides an update for the practitioner concerning recent advances and research in the area of clinical treatment.