Review of Various Clinical Assessment Indices and Orthodontic Management for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

The term "temporomandibular disorders" (TMDs) refers to a variety of problems involving the muscles of the masticatory system and the jaw. The most common symptoms of TMD are pain in the face, headaches, clicking or popping in the joints, and difficulties with jaw function. The severity of TMD can be measured with a number of different scales, including the Helkimo, Craniomandibular Index (CMI), Mandibular Functional Impairment Questionnaire (MFIQ), Fonseca scale and Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) scales. The former focuses on the patient's chief complaint, while the latter takes into account secondary symptoms such as limited mobility, impaired temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function, muscle pain, and discomfort during mandibular motion. According to the severity of the issue, the results can be used to categorise the situation. To effectively treat TMD, one must first determine their index score and then formulate a treatment strategy based on that score.