Evidence-based occlusal management for termporomandibular disorders (ebook)

  • K. Torii
Bentham Books price $59.00; pp 206 eISBN: 9781608057832 | ISBN: 978-1-6080-5783-2

This is an ebook and a series of ten articles, each presented as a separate chapter. It aims to provide a broad overview of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD). The author feels that, while controversial, there is evidence for a link between occlusal factors and TMJD. He believes the use of occlusal management for treatment should not be ruled out. This text aims to provide a thorough review of the evidence for the reader.

The author begins by describing the epidemiology and aetiology of the disease, followed by the anatomy and physiology relevant to occlusion. It focuses on the impact of occlusion in TMJD and describes a variety of treatment options including occlusal adjustment. It also gives a useful guide to signs and symptoms of TMJD.

This is an academic work; it walks the reader through over 100 years of research on TMJ and TMJD. Many papers are reviewed in the book, however; there is little information on the strength and power of these studies. It becomes apparent that there is little international agreement on disease indicators or treatment outcomes for TMJD and this appears to make bringing together different studies difficult. In places, it is also difficult to work out which outcomes are from studies and which are the author's own conclusions from study results.

Some of the explanations, for example of occlusion and jaw movements, are voluble. The author appears to deem this necessary to allow correct identification and treatment of occlusal interferences. The length of some passages makes the read quite difficult, particularly as this is an ebook, on a computer screen. In places, this is heightened by the unusual language and phraseology employed by the author.

The book aims to give a step-by-step guide for clinicians, however, despite giving a thorough explanation I would not feel confident carrying out treatment based on the guidance in this book without further training.

While presenting the case for the use of occlusal adjustment in the treatment of TMJD the author does accept that other, less destructive treatments such as splint therapy or physiotherapy often give good outcomes for patients.

The author presents a good case for the consideration of occlusion as an aetiological factor in cases of severe and persistent TMJD. This book would be a good starting point for clinicians who would like to begin developing their clinical practice in this area.