TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS: AN UPDATED REVIEW OF ETIOPATHOGENESIS, DIAGNOSTIC STRATEGIES, AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY MANAGEMENT

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) represent a heterogeneous group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, and associated craniofacial structures.These disorders are among the most common causes of orofacial pain and functional impairment, significantly influencing patients' quality of life.The etiology of TMD is multifactorial, involving complex interactions between biomechanical stress, neuromuscular dysfunction, psychosocial factors, and degenerative changes within the temporomandibular joint.Advances in diagnostic criteria, particularly the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD), have improved the standardization of clinical evaluation and facilitated more reliable classification of these conditions.Imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging and cone beam computed tomography play a crucial role in the assessment of soft tissue and osseous structures of the temporomandibular joint, contributing to accurate diagnosis.Management of TMD is primarily based on conservative and multidisciplinary approaches, including occlusal splint therapy, physiotherapy, behavioral modification, and pharmacological treatment.Minimally invasive procedures such as arthrocentesis may be indicated in selected cases of intra-articular pathology.Understanding the complex pathophysiology and adopting a comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic approach are essential for improving clinical outcomes in patients affected by temporomandibular disorders.