Tabish Ahmed

The term Temporomandibular disorder's (TMD) covers constellation of conditions. There have been many attempts to categories these conditions but all have shortfalls. Some classify by anatomy, some classify by etiology and some by frequency of presentation. We should be aware, however, that there is considerable overlap in any classification system because these are often not clinically appropriate. No one system, therefore, satisfies all criteria. Temporomandibular disorders effect the articulatory system, consisting of temporomandibular joints, mandibular muscles and the occlusion. Any factor that has an effect on one part of the system is likely to influence the other parts of the system, so it is important to avoid tunnel vison when considering possible signs and symptoms of the Temporomandibular Disorder. In modern dental schools there is a shift from traditional teaching to more interactive methods. In classical didactic textbooks, readers are frequently seen as passive recipients, without any engagement in the learning process. Problem based learning increases the effectiveness of delivering information and makes learning a more memorable experience for the reader.

Planning and executing the restorative rehabilitation of a decimated occlusion is probably the most intellectual and demanding tasks faced by a restorative dentist. Numerous writings and recommendations have been made over the subject of occlusion and it is still very unclear to majority of practicing dentists. During all the phases of the treatment, decisions must be made by the dentist, concerning whole of the complex area of occlusion including the TMJs and the muscles surrounding the oro-facial complex. The dentists must be aware of the requirements of an ideal occlusion, so that, the restoration that is aimed for is not only better in esthetics, it is better even in its functional form and is also in harmony with entire somatognathic system. We must remember that all patients can not be successfully treated with a single preconceived treatment philosophy. Satisfactorily restoring a patient to a state of physiologic health is a challenge that requires a clinician to have the skill to accurately diagnose, plan and ultimately execute an affective treatment.