Oclusão & disfunção temporomandibular: uso, sobreuso e desuso - uma revisão da literatura

Abstract

Objectives: To analyze the relationship between occlusion, malocclusions, and Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), assessing the influence of orthodontic treatment on TMD and vice versa. Methodology: This is a qualitative and descriptive literature review. The research was conducted in the PubMed database using the descriptors "temporomandibular disorders" and "temporomandibular disorders and occlusion." Peer-reviewed articles and academic book chapters published between 2020 and 2025, in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, were included. Data analysis was performed using the content analysis technique. Results: The relationship between occlusion and TMD is complex and multifactorial, not causal. Evidence showed that orthodontic treatment is not a significant risk factor for the development or worsening of TMD. Malocclusion primarily acts as a co-factor, whose impact is potentiated by interaction with elements such as bruxism. On the other hand, severe articular TMD conditions can, in fact, generate secondary malocclusions. Final considerations: The management of TMD requires an interdisciplinary approach that prioritizes conservative therapies. Orthodontics should be positioned as part of a broad treatment strategy, not as a unique solution, given the multifactorial nature of the disorder.