Temporomandibular Disorders: Disc Displacements

Disc displacements (DD) of the temporomandibular joint were incorrectly referred to as internal derangements' in earlier publications. "Internal derangements" is essentially an orthopedic term for disorders believed to cause mechanical impediments to joint function, a fault that subsequently disturbs the normally smooth action of a joint. They are characterized by reducing or non-reducing disc displacements or other abnormalities in disc tissue position or morphology, which may lead to temporomandibular joint clicking and/or crepitus, and in some cases, pain and limitation in joint or jaw movement. Their diverse treatment has included intraoral splints (anterior positioning splints with stepping back and flat-plane splints, for example), medications eg, anti-inflammatory medication), physiotherapy, and surgery, which have yielded varying degrees of success. However, there is also evidence that some patients with DD may recover spontaneously. This underscores the need for a clear identification of the range of conditions, which demand different management strategies. The intent of this paper is to highlight currently available methods used for assessment and treatment of DD in temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

temporomandibular disorders; temporomandibular joint; orofacial pain; disc displacement