Epidemiological studies have reported that at least one symptom of TMD is seen in about 45% of the population and at least one clinical finding is present in about 40% to 60% of the population.

The etiology of TMD (the disease-causing factors) is complex and is not yet fully established. Chronic recurrent traumas such as dental occlusion problems, acute trauma, clenching and grinding are considered probable causes. Psychogenic factors are also important. However, this is often thought to be a factor contributing to the disease rather than a primary cause such as trauma and malocclusion.

Prof. Dr. Serkan Polat has a special interest in TMD and his PhD thesis is related to this subject. He is a member of International Network of Orofacial Pain and Related Diseases Methodology. Dr. Serkan Polat is leading the team for the Turkish version of the “Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders: Assessment Instruments” method prepared by this network. The documents in Turkish were prepared in 2016. Prof. Dr. Serkan Polat certified with this standard diagnostic method and he is the first practitioners in the Republic of Türkiye.