A critical reflection on the so-called phase 1 / phase 2 strategy for the therapy of patients with temporomandibular disorders

A recent analysis of dental websites in Germany has shown that the so-called phase 1 / phase 2 concept for the therapy of patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which dates back to the 1970s, remains relatively widespread. At the same time, summary critical reviews of this therapeutic strategy are scarce and widely scattered in the dental literature. This can be disadvantageous for readers who want to know what the current expert opinions are in regard to this topic. In addition, it creates problems in the preparation of expert reports that may be required for insurance reviews or for various medicolegal situations. In this article, a brief description of this therapeutic concept is followed by a critical evaluation of it. It becomes clear that this clinical approach lacks scientific support and that its continued implementation is fraught with ethical concerns. Finally, two explanations are presented as to why the two-phase concept is still offered by some dentists.