Temporamandibular Disorders: An Evidence-Based Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment.

Temporamandibular Disorders: An Evidence-Based Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment

Laskin DM, Greene CS, Hylander WL, eds. Hanover Park, IL 60133, Quintessence Publishing Co Inc, 2006, hardcover, 548 pp, illus, ISBN: 0-86715-447-0, $158.

This book continues the tradition established by 4 editions of the classic monograph, The Temporomandibular Joint: A Biological Basis for Clinical Practice, which was coedited by Daniel Laskin, the senior editor of this book. Temporomandibular Disorders is written primarily for oral and maxillofacial surgeons and other clinicians and researchers interested in the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. It integrates the contributions of basic scientists and clinicians in an evidence-based approach to temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).

The book consists of 36 well-referenced chapters grouped in 2 parts. Part I, "Biologic Basis," covers the anatomy, function, growth, and neurophysiology of the TMJ in section A and the pathophysiology of TMDs in section B. The latter section includes chapters on chronic orofacial pain, TMJ articular disk derangements, molecular events involved in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis in the TMJ, and less common systemic disorders that may affect the TMJ (eg, connective tissue diseases).

Part II, "Clinical Management," includes sections on diagnostic modalities, diagnosis of TMDs and related orofacial conditions, therapeutic modalities, and evidence-based treatment. These sections include chapters that briefly review the diagnostic criteria and important features of various arthritic diseases, evaluate the effectiveness of physical treatment modalities in patients with TMDs, and describe a serf-administered exercise program for patients. For instance, the section on diagnosis includes a chapter reviewing the diagnostic criteria and important features of various arthritic diseases (eg, rheumatoid arthritis, gout). A therapeutic modalities chapter, "Physical Medicine," includes brief descriptions of the use of ultrasound and cold therapy, acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, jaw manipulation and exercise, and combination therapies in patients with TMDs. An evidence-based treatment chapter, "Medical Management of TMJ Arthritis," briefly describes a serf-administered exercise program for patients.

This is a well-written monograph for dental specialists who treat TMDs and for researchers who study the TMJ. Physical therapists with advanced knowledge of TMDs may be interested in some chapters.

William A Roy, PT, PhD

Touro University--Nevada

Henderson, NV

Roy is Associate Professor of Basic Sciences in the College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is coauthor of the second edition of a review book currently in press on gross and developmental anatomy for medical students.

[DOI: 10.2522/ptj.2006.86.10.1451.2]