Temporomandibular Disorders: Guidelines for Classification, Assessment, and Management.

This 141-page manual is clearly and concisely written. It represents the recommendations of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain for the classification, assessment, and management of temporomandibular disorders. The American Academy of Orofacial Pain is composed of persons who have academic credentials, advanced education and training, or extensive clinical experience.

The book has six chapters, which are entided "Introduction," "Epidemiology," "Etiology," "Diagnostic Classification," "Assessment," and "Management." Each chapter is well organized and contains supporting illustrations and charts. Diagnostic classification is based on knowledge gained from research in the basic and clinical services and on clinical practice experience. Specifics of the comprehensive physical examination are described as (1) general inspection of the head and neck, (2) evaluation of the temporomandibular joint and cervical spine, (3) mastication and cervical muscle evaluation, (4) neurovascular evaluation, and (5) intraoral evaluation. The chapter on management of the patient with temporomandibular disorder is most extensive. Each chapter is followed by an extensive bibliography. The addendum includes issues on reimbursement, impairment, disability, and the ethics of professional responsibility in evaluating and treating patients who have temporomandibular disorders. A 26-page glossary is complete in defining the terms used throughout the book.

Because temporomandibular disorders are now viewed as a cluster of related disorders in the masticatory system that have many common symptoms, I believe this volume would be a most useful guide and reference to all clinicians assessing and participating in the management of patients who have this diagnosis. This manual would be most helpful for the clinician seeking to use the most sophisticated approach in specifically diagnosing the problems that patients present. Following appropriate diagnosis, this work's suggestions for individualized conservative care to work toward goal achievement and resolution of symptoms should be considered. Concise, cost-effective, specific treatment plans that avoid overzealous use of treatment, openended durations of care, and excessive or untested diagnostic tests are recommended for clinicians who feel they are qualified to evaluate and manage patients with temporomandibular disorders.