Glossodynia and glossopyrosis - a discussion of the aetiology and management

Fifty patients with temporomandibular pain dysfunction syndrome were examined. Seventy-eight percent and 32 percent were female and male respectively. The white collar workers were more frequently affected. Emotional stress, dental malocclusion and a history of trauma were the main causes. Treatment consists of reassurance, relaxed jaw movements and exercises, anxiolytic drugs, thermotherapy, biting appliance, occlusal adjustments and restoration of lost dental units.