Neurobiology of Temporomandibular Joint Pain: Therapeutic Implications

Persistent pain is the main reason for patient presentation with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. The pain is thought to result, at least in part, from sensitization of trigeminal sensory neurons that innervate the TMJ region. Sensitized sensory neurons can be hyperexcitable, responding both more readily and more vigorously to peripheral stimuli. At a cellular level, it is the distribution and function of ion channels and receptors that determine neuronal hyperexcitability. Thus, these ion channels and receptors are potential targets for the development of novel therapeutics. In this review, we will explore the role of specific ion channels and receptors that are actively being investigated in preclinical studies, focusing on inflammatory-induced pain of the TMJ, and comment on the therapeutic potential of pharmacological manipulation of these channels and receptors in the treatment of pain associated with TMJ disorders.