IADR Abstract Archives
Temporomandibular Joint Sounds With Wilkes Classification Reveal Internal Derangement Insights
Objectives: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) often involve complex interactions between many anatomical factors. Affected structures can include the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), muscles of mastication and accompanying hard and soft tissues. Internal derangements of the TMJ may manifest as a spectrum of presentations, highlighting the diverse array disease processes and reparative adaptations that influence the pathology. TMJ sounds (TMS) are a common feature exhibited through a spectrum from healthy to severely diseased states. We examined the TMS literature and detail the relationship between TMS and the Wilkes classifications. Derived from clinical, radiologic, and anatomic findings the Wilkes classifications have served as a powerful tool for the classification of internal derangements. We highlight how a mechanistic understanding TMJ sound generation can lead to a more through understanding of disease states and consequently more informed TMD diagnoses.
Methods: A computer-based search was used to collect literature to examine temporomandibular joint sound literature. PubMed was searched using the MeSH terms such as: TMJ, TMD, joint vibration analysis, (sounds OR vibrations OR auscultation). Only english-language publications or translated articles were assessed.
Results: Current evidence does not support the use of joint sounds as an definitive diagnostic test.
Conclusions: The Wilkes classification system establishes a common language for characterizing internal derangements. It also facilitates communication between clinicians and researchers to support collaboration. Our study reinforces the notion that a multi-modal examination approach helps to ensure diagnostic accuracy. The complexity of TMDs requires an understanding of a patient’s detailed clinical history, examination, and radiographic findings. To effectively treat a disorder we must understand the diverse problems and their variable etiologies. Though joint sounds provide important diagnostic information, current research does not support their use as a definitive diagnostic tool. Yet, when the joint speaks, the astute clinician has an opportunity to eavesdrop in on the insights it has to reveal.
Methods: A computer-based search was used to collect literature to examine temporomandibular joint sound literature. PubMed was searched using the MeSH terms such as: TMJ, TMD, joint vibration analysis, (sounds OR vibrations OR auscultation). Only english-language publications or translated articles were assessed.
Results: Current evidence does not support the use of joint sounds as an definitive diagnostic test.
Conclusions: The Wilkes classification system establishes a common language for characterizing internal derangements. It also facilitates communication between clinicians and researchers to support collaboration. Our study reinforces the notion that a multi-modal examination approach helps to ensure diagnostic accuracy. The complexity of TMDs requires an understanding of a patient’s detailed clinical history, examination, and radiographic findings. To effectively treat a disorder we must understand the diverse problems and their variable etiologies. Though joint sounds provide important diagnostic information, current research does not support their use as a definitive diagnostic tool. Yet, when the joint speaks, the astute clinician has an opportunity to eavesdrop in on the insights it has to reveal.