Arthroscopy vs splint-therapy in managing the tmd: a review

Abstract

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) is the main cause of nondental origin pain in the orofacial region including head, face and related structures. The etiology and the pathophysiology of TMD is poorly understood. It is generally accepted that the etiology is multifactorial, involving a large number of direct and indirect causal factors. TMD pain remains a diagnostic and management challenge for many clinicians. It is estimated that 40% to 75% of the population displays at least one sign of the disease and 33% of the population reports at least one symptom. Arthroscopy has been used to reduce signs and symptoms of patients with TMD but the effectiveness has still not been totally explained.