Orofacial motricity in temporomandibular dysfunctions: an integrative approach to interdisciplinary intervention

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: to describe the speech-language therapist role in the interdisciplinary team in the intervention of Orofacial motricity in the temporomandibular dysfunction documented in scientific publications. Methods: the search was conducted in well-known databases using the following terms or terminological associations: Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), stomatognathic system and TMD, Mastication, Speech and TMD. Interventions related to voice or temporomandibular joint indemnity were not included. Results: the interventions indicated in the scientific publications are described, giving an account of the role of the speech pathologist in the TMD intervention team. Conclusion: the therapist’s intervention in Orofacial Motricity restores the stomatognathic system by addressing its functions. An isolated treatment approach from professionals overlooks the relationship of interdependence between function and structure. An appeal for an integrated and interdisciplinary work model, setting it free from the traditional fragmentary and multidisciplinary model, is made.