The inconclusiveness of research on functional pathologies of the temporomandibular system and body posture: Paths followed, paths ahead: A critical review.

OBJECTIVE: Literature on the functional pathologies of the temporomandibular system (FPTS) in its relationships with body posture is plagued with inconclusiveness. Despite being sometimes altogether disregarded, the issue is most relevant, due to its clinical implications. This paper aims for a deeper understanding of the origins of the inconclusiveness of research on such relationships by means of a critical analysis of the scientific literature on the subject, in order that clinicians may better treat patients with FPTS.

METHODS: Analysis of over 100 studies, published from 1918 through March 2018 in the PubMed database, using descriptors temporomandibular joint disorders and posture.

RESULTS: The analysis of the paths followed by researchers allowed for pinning down several methodological issues that may have led to the prevailing ambiguity on the matter.

CONCLUSION: This review then proposes certain standardization of procedures in future studies, to be conducted by a proposed consortium of researchers.