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Although several theories have been raised, the true etiopathogenesis of masticatory myofascial temporomandibular disorders (mTMD) remains unknown.
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Diagnosis is merely centered on establishing “familiar pain” on palpating or mobilizing masticatory myofascial tissue.
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This results in subjective assessments of both the severity of the disease and of ascertaining treatment response.
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No rigorous means exists to compare treatment efficacy or to assign a given treatment option. Inadequate management may
Myofascial Temporomandibular Disorders at a Turning Point: Pragmatic or Evidence-Based Management?
Section snippets
Key points
Clinics care points
Temporomandibular disorder (mTMD) etiopathogenesis has not been fully elucidated; theories for mTMD development have not been validated. mTMD seems to have both nociceptive and nociplastic (pain processing and perception) components. The diagnosis of “myalgia” per the current the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders criteria has higher diagnostic accuracy than further subtypes. Currently, mTMD diagnosis and management are both centered on a subjective, and hence variable assessment
Disclosure
The authors have nothing to disclose.
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