Occlusion is defined by the Glossary of Prosthodontic Terms as “The static relationship between the incising or masticating surfaces of the maxillary or mandibular teeth or tooth analogues.” while gnathology is defined as “The study of the biology of the masticatory mechanism.” Patients present to dental offices for three main reasons: appearance, function and comfort. Today’s dental teams are more capable than ever to facilitate enhancement in all three of these areas for patients seeking care. This evidence-based presentation will explore the relationship of the stomatognathic system gnathologically re: TMD/orofacial pain. Practical inter- and multidisciplinary recommendations for the TMD/orofacial pain practitioners will be offered. The learning objectives will be:
1. evidence-based care (what, why, when)
2. occlusion: what it is and is not
3. gnathology as related to:
a) patient management
b) restorative dentistry/ prosthodontics
c) parafunction
d) orofacial pain/TMD
e) orthotics
4. concluding remarks and practical clinical take home messages