2010 Annual Session - TMJ Disorders: Innovations in Diagnostics and Therapeutics

Because the etiologies and pathogenesis of TMJ diseases are poorly understood, these conditions are difficult to diagnose and manage. Current approaches to treatments of these diseases are largely palliative. Definitive and rational diagnoses or treatments can only be achieved through a comprehensive understanding of their etiologies, predisposing factors, and pathogenesis. Novel findings in biomedicine and developments in imaging and computer technologies are generating innovations in the diagnostics and therapeutics of TMJ disorders. These advances include the identification and use of biomarkers to diagnose disease or monitor improvements during therapy; the use of imaging technologies for earlier and more sensitive diagnostics; and the use of biomedicine, biomimetics, and imaging to design and manufacture bioengineered joints. Such advances are likely to help customize and enhance the quality of care we provide to patients with TMJ disorders.

Learning Objectives:

• Update on current knowledge on etiology and pathogenesis of TMJ diseases
• Innovations in biologic diagnostics and therapeutics of TMJ diseases
• Use of 3-D imaging in diagnosis and tissue engineering