Summary: Since 1970 interest in TMD has steadily increased. The definition of TMD has caused much confusion within the profession. Various terms reflecting the assumed aetiology have been generated in the past and are still used today. Prevalence data and conclusions about etiology were deduced from clinical samples, until Helkimo started an epidemiological survey in 1969. The prevalence data of TMD show a great range, possibly due to the varied nomenclature of the disorder, the often fluctuating signs and symptoms and the population studied. For the Czech population the prevalence was made in 1989, n = 10,000. The main etiological theories are described, and the different therapeutic approaches are mentioned. With these data it may be possible to furnish a scientific based strategy for the prevention and health care treatment of TMD in Czech republic.

        Key words: dentistry – temporomandibular joint – prevalence