Behavioral therapy for temporomandibular disorders.

Temporomandibular disorders are varied in terms of etiology, pathophysiology, chronicity, and the disability they involve. The majority of adults in the Western world have some minor symptoms of these disorders, but only about 5% need treatment. Reversible therapies, including medication, physical therapy, behavioral therapy, and bite appliances, are popular today because of the lack of knowledge concerning the natural course of the disorders and the long-term effects of nonreversible treatments. Review articles and published guidelines generally support the use and efficacy of behavioral therapies for temporomandibular disorders. However, because these results are based on studies with methodical weaknesses, the recommendations must be viewed with caution, and further study must be conducted.