The role of malocclusion and orthodontics in temporomandibular disorders.

The recent literature is reviewed to assess the role of the dental occlusion in the etiopathogenesis of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and the role of orthodontic therapy in preventing and treating TMD. Little evidence was found to support occlusal factors in TMD other than lack of posterior occlusal support and anterior open bite, which may represent predisposing factors in TMD. Orthodontic therapy may not affect the risk of developing TMD and has little role in treatment.