Whiplash-associated disorders and temporomandibular symptoms following motor-vehicle collisions

Recent research has shown that temporomandibular symptoms may be associated with or occur independently of whiplash-associated disorders related to motor-vehicle collisions. A PubMed/Medline search was conducted using the terms "temporomandibular disorders," "orofacial pain," "temporomandibular joint," "whiplash," and "whiplash-associated disorders and motor-vehicle accidents and motor-vehicle collisions" for the years 1995 to 2009. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical studies were included if they addressed temporomandibular disorders, whiplash epidemiology, diagnosis, and prognosis. References in the selected articles were also reviewed (including those prior to 1995) if the articles specifically addressed the topic. An evidence base was established for general outcomes using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence. Temporomandibular symptoms may develop following motor-vehicle collisions and be more complex, representing a component of a symptom cluster of potentially regional and widespread pain impacted by psychosocial factors. Oral health care providers must be aware of the relationship between temporomandibular symptoms, whiplash-associated disorders, and trauma and the more complex nature of the symptoms for appropriate diagnosis and management. Keywords: motor-vehicle collisions, temporomandibular symptoms and disorders, whiplash-associated disorders