Patients suffering with various orofacial pain conditions are likely to seek advice and treatment from a family physician. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are common in the general population, and the clinician should be aware of the common associated signs and symptoms so that proper therapy can be provided. The family physician can often provide initial therapies that are effective in reducing TMD symptoms. In some instances, it is appropriate for the family physician to refer the patient to a dentist for a more comprehensive evaluation of the masticatory system. This article describes the common patient complaints associated with TM disorders. A few simple therapies are discussed along with suggestions regarding the appropriate time for referral to a dentist for a thorough dental evaluation.

Related Organizations

Radboud University Nijmegen
Netherlands
University of Kentucky
United States

Keywords

Patient Education as Topic, Temporomandibular Joint, Humans, Epidemiology of mandibular dysfunction in the Netherlands, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome, Family Practice, Referral and Consultation, Een onderzoek naar het voorkomen van mandibulaire dysfunctie in Nederland

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