Dr. Naser Khayat

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are among the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions affecting the orofacial region and represent a major cause of chronic pain and functional impairment. Modern evidence supports a shift from the traditional biomechanical view of TMD toward a broader biopsychosocial model that recognizes the complex interactions among psychological, behavioral, neuromuscular, and sleep-related factors.This lecture explores the contemporary understanding of TMD through a multidisciplinary perspective, highlighting the roles of stress, anxiety, depression, awake and sleep bruxism, central sensitization, and chronic pain mechanisms in the onset and persistence of TMD symptoms. Particular attention will be given to the growing body of evidence linking TMD with sleep disturbances and sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).The presentation will discuss the bidirectional relationship between pain and sleep, the potential role of airway compromise in orofacial pain conditions, and the importance of screening for sleep-related breathing disorders in patients presenting with TMD complaints. Clinical cases will be used to illustrate how collaboration among dentists, orthodontists, orofacial pain specialists, sleep physicians, physiotherapists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals can improve patient outcomes.By integrating current scientific evidence with practical clinical approaches, this lecture aims to provide participants with a comprehensive framework for understanding, diagnosing, and managing TMD in the modern era.