The many faces of genetic contributions to temporomandibular joint disorder: An updated review

Orthod Craniofac Res. 2018 Nov;21(4):186-201. doi: 10.1111/ocr.12239. Epub 2018 Sep 11.

Abstract

Objectives: The aim was to review the literature regarding genetic contributions to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) after our 2008 publication.

Setting and sample population: Literature review.

Material and methods: PubMed and MEDLINE were used to obtain literature in any language regarding genes and TMD, using the keywords "temporomandibular joint disorder" and "temporomandibular joint dysfunction" for studies published from 2009 to 2017.

Results: In our search, 274 studies were found. We excluded 76 studies from animal models, 22 studies that were in vitro and 120 reports that were not cohort or case-control studies. Of the 274 results, 56 articles were selected for this review. Genes that are suggested to contribute to TMD included the ones related to disc and bone alterations as well as pain sensation.

Conclusion: Currently, no evidence of associated genetic variants, which can determine the development of TMD in individuals, could be translated to novel clinical management and public health strategies for patients suffering from TMD.

Keywords: genetics; temporomandibular joint; temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Databases, Factual
  • Humans
  • Models, Animal
  • Pain Threshold
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Temporomandibular Joint
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disc
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / genetics*
  • Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome / genetics*