From the Guidelines
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) dysfunction can be classified into several categories, including internal derangement, inflammatory disorders, ankylosis, arthritis, and fractures, as well as condylar hypoplasia and hyperplasia, according to the most recent evidence 1. The classification of TMJ dysfunction is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. The main categories include:
- Internal derangement, which involves the displacement of the articular disc with or without reduction
- Inflammatory disorders, such as synovitis and capsulitis
- Ankylosis, which is the fusion of the joint
- Arthritis, which includes various types of joint inflammation
- Fractures, condylar hypoplasia, and hyperplasia, which affect the structure of the joint These categories are based on the diagnosis of TMJ disorders, which is typically made using a combination of anamnestic, clinical, and radiological information 1. It's worth noting that the American Academy of Orofacial Pain has divided TMDs into two large categories: TMJ disorders and masticatory muscle disorders 1. However, the most recent and highest-quality study provides a more detailed classification, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment 1. In terms of management, occlusal splints and/or physical therapy may be beneficial in patients with orofacial symptoms and/or TMJ dysfunction, although the evidence is limited 1. The most appropriate classification system for TMJ dysfunction should be based on the most recent and highest-quality evidence, which prioritizes internal derangement, inflammatory disorders, ankylosis, arthritis, and fractures, as well as condylar hypoplasia and hyperplasia 1.
From the Research
Classifications of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction
The classifications of TMJ dysfunction can be broadly categorized into different approaches, including:
- Structural changes occurring within the joint 2
- Positional changes occurring within the joint 2
- Internal derangements, which may occur independent of underlying pathology 2
- Arthritic disorders, involving inflammation and degeneration 2
- Growth disorders, involving structural aberrations 2
Types of TMJ Disorders
Some of the specific types of TMJ disorders include:
- Myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome 3, 4
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome 3
- Internal derangements, such as disc displacement 2
- Degenerative joint disease, such as osteoarthritis 2
Classification Systems
There are several classification systems for TMJ disorders, including:
- American Academy of Orofacial Pain classification 5
- Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD 5
- Classification by B.W.Neville, D.D.Damm, C.M.Allen, J.E.Bouquot 5
- International classification of diseases ICD-10 5
- A new surgical classification for TMJ disorders, which divides TMJ disorders into 5 categories of escalating degrees of joint disease 6
Examination Protocols
There are also several examination protocols for patients with suspected TMJ disorders, including: