To advance a modified TMD classification suitable to dental practice in China.
A modified classification scheme was proposed based on reviews of the previous classification of TMD suggested by the authors and the classification schemes recommended by the International Headache Society (IHS), the American Academy of Orofacial Pain (AAOP), and other researchers.
The following modified classification of TMD was suggested: I. Masticatory muscular disorders, including myofascial pain, myositis, myospasm, unclassified local muscular pain, and fibrostic contracture; II. Structural derangement disorders (or internal derangement disorders), including anterior disc displacement with or without reduction as well as other forms of disc displacement such as medial, lateral, and rotatory disc displacement; III. Inflammatory disorders, including acute and chronic synovitis and capsulitis; IV. Osteoarthrosis, including primary and secondary osteoarthrosis.
The modified classification of TMD should simplify and improve the diagnosis and treatment of TMD in China. However, more is required to improve the general level of dental care in China and to overcome the shortcomings of the modified classification with regard to understanding the psychological effects of TMD and the use of advanced diagnostic techniques.