Abstract
Introduction: Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) encompasses a group of disorders of the masticatory system, broadly divided into muscle conditions and those that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMD is a common condition whose signs appear in up to 60 to 70% of the population. The peak incidence is observed in adults aged 20 to 40 years. Orofacial pain is a common presentation in general practice contexts. For most patients, a conservative approach to managing TMD should be adopted. Up to 40% of symptomatic patients have spontaneous resolution of their symptoms without treatment, and 14 and 50-90% of patients have relief with conservative therapy. Objective: To present the main current considerations on temporomandibular dysfunctions, through a systematic literature review. Methods: The present study followed a model of systematic literature review presenting and discussing case series, prospective, retrospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in humans with a publication time of the last ten years were selected and analyzed, with a total of 15 articles, following the rules of PRISMA. Major findings and conclusion: TMJ can be affected by infectious and inflammatory processes, vitamin or hormone deficiencies, and changes in shape caused by trauma or parafunction. Also, chewing teeth and muscles may be involved in common pathological manifestations that together constitute the symptoms of TMD. TMD is multifactorial, being associated with muscle hyperactivity, trauma, emotional stress, malocclusion, and numerous other predisposing, precipitating, or prolonged factors of this condition. The occlusal plates are used as a reversible therapy, to temporarily promote an orthopedically more stable joint position and provide a more adequate muscular function. They can be used as protection for teeth and support structures against abnormal forces or of great intensity and duration.