A Conversation About the Two Most Misunderstood Subjects in Dentistry

Abstract

The most likely etiological factor in TMDs is parafunctional forces generated from grinding (bruxism) and clenching (DCS). While bruxism can be managed with a guard; DCS cannot. Dentists can only monitor for its signs and advise patients as to its many etiological factors. DCS is a formidable threat to implant reconstructions due to the reduced volume of alveolar bone which is beneficial in dispersing parafunctional forces. Reactively relying on occlusal schemes to minimize these forces is secondary to proactively elevating patient’s awareness. To address the dilemma of occlusion, the dental community needs to adopt a more holistic view of the mastication system. It needs to recognize the limitations of the term occlusion, which has been overused, confused, and extended beyond its meaning. It needs to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the role of DCS in the etiology of TMD disorders.