Understanding occlusion as it relates to the temporomandibular joint--the fourth molar paradigm.

In the typical dental office, at least one third of the patients present with indications for an occlusal appliance. Eighty percent of craniomandibular patients observed in general practice can and should be treated by the general practitioner. Unfortunately, because of time constraints in dental school curricula and prevailing controversies concerning occlusion, many dentists lack the skills and confidence necessary to provide these services.