Who suffers from temporomandibular joint disorders, the factors that cause this problem, and how we treat it

The temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) comprise a constellation of symptoms affecting the joints and muscles involved in jaw movement. Patients complain of orofacial pain, limited jaw opening, and clicking or popping sounds. Although pain is generally the defining characteristic of TMD, patients often report marked degrees of stress and interference in daily life. Functional and parafunctional habits are considered risk factors adding the psychophysiological theory where stress is a determinant factor in myofascial pain. Sex differences have been shown to cause TMD in which women take the leading role. The successful management of temporomandibular disorders relies on identifying and controlling the contributing factors. This article reviews recent studies on etiology, sex differences , psychological assessment, and the treatment of TM