Cortical Dysfunction in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders

Temporomandibular disorders are a group of chronic and painful conditions in the masticatory musculature and temporomandibular joint. The pathological mechanisms underlying temporomandibular disorders remain to be clarified; however, it is known that disturbances in neurophysiological, cognitive, behavioral and neuromuscular functions are involved in the development and persistence of such disorders. In addition, it has been suggested that neuropathological changes in the central nervous system are involved in the development of temporomandibular disorders. This review describes changes in the cortical machinery in patients with temporomandibular disorders by comparing neuromagnetic signals between healthy subjects and patients elicited by observing jaw opening movements made by another person.