Epidemiology and natural progression of articular temporomandibular disorders.

The reported prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) differs from study to study, probably because of methodologic errors and lack of standardized definitions of TMDs and their characteristics. Classification of TMDs should be in accordance with classification of synovial joint disorders as generally used by rheumatologists and orthopedic surgeons, in which articular disorders are distinguished from nonarticular disorders. Articular temporomandibular disorders appear to be self-limiting in a very high percentage of cases. Because of this nonprogressive nature, the outcome of nonsurgical management will be highly successful.