Orthognathic treatment of dentofacial disharmonies: its impact on temporomandibular disorders, quality of life, and psychosocial wellness

Abstract

Aim: The objective of this literature review was to assess the effect of orthognathic surgical treatment on temporomandibular disorders (TMD), quality of life (QoL), and psychosocial wellness.

Methods: Journal articles and systematic reviews published in English between 1982 and 2015 were searched using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane database using the search terms “orthognathic,” “temporomandibular disorders,” “quality of life,” and “psychosocial.” The articles were then reviewed and discussed.

Results: Both objective and subjective parameters play a role in orthognathic treatment outcome satisfaction and QoL. Psychological factors and TMD exerted a stronger influence on patients’ QoL more than objective treatment outcome measures.

Conclusion: A paradigm shift in clinical mindset from solely objective measures to a more holistic, patient-centric approach of addressing patients’ expectations and improving QoL is warranted when treating patients with dentofacial disharmonies.

Keywords:

• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)
• Orthognathic surgery
• Quality of life (QoL)
• Oral health-related QoL (OHRQoL)