Osteoarthritis of the Temporomandibular Joint: A Narrative Overview

Medicina (Kaunas). 2022 Dec 20;59(1):8. doi: 10.3390/medicina59010008.

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study reviewed the literature to summarize the current and recent knowledge of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA). Methods: Through a literature review, this work summarizes many concepts related to TMJOA. Results: Although many signaling pathways have been investigated, the etiopathogenesis of TMJOA remains unclear. Some clinical signs are suggestive of TMJOA; however, diagnosis is mainly based on radiological findings. Treatment options include noninvasive, minimally invasive, and surgical techniques. Several study models have been used in TMJOA studies because there is no gold standard model. Conclusion: More research is needed to develop curative treatments for TMJOA, which could be tested with reliable in vitro models, and to explore tissue engineering to regenerate damaged temporomandibular joints.

Keywords: osteoarthritis; review; temporomandibular joint.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Osteoarthritis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Signal Transduction
  • Temporomandibular Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders* / diagnostic imaging
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders* / therapy

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.