Neglected Temporomandibular Joint In Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic multisystem disease of presumed autoimmune etiology characterized by synovial inflammation that destroys the joint tissue. Although the susceptibility of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to RA is similar to any other synovial joints in the body, it is generally neglected by the patients without realizing the signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint disease (TMD). Therefore, it presents a challenge for the Rheumatologists & Dental healthcare personal to suspect and to diagnose TMD in RA at an early stage. The aim of reporting the present case is to highlight the importance of early diagnosis of TMD and thereby reduce the severity of disease which might otherwise collapse the stomatognathic system.