Etiological factors and principles of treatment of TMDs. Occlusal splint: when, why and how

Full Professor in Orthodontics and Clinical Gnathology at the University of Naples Federico II, Italy. Director of the Postgraduate School in Orthodontics at University of Naples Federico II. Director of the Master Course on "Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders" at University of Naples Federico II. One of the most important researchers internationally in the field of orthodontics, temporomandibular disorders, and orofacial pain.

Over 42 years of combined clinical, teaching, and research experience since graduation in 1984. Expert in temporomandibular disorders diagnosis and treatment, orofacial pain management, orthodontic treatment and its relationship to TMD, manual therapy for musculoskeletal conditions, cognitive-behavioral therapy for TMD patients, jaw exercises, and patient-centered TMD treatment. Practice limited exclusively to orthodontic treatment and management of temporomandibular disorders. Research focuses on physiopathology of masticatory muscles, etiology, diagnosis and therapy of craniomandibular disorders, correlation between TMD and orthodontics, pain mechanisms in orofacial region, and effectiveness of various TMD therapies.

Former President of the European Academy of Craniomandibular Disorders (EACMD, 2010). Former President of the Neuroscience Group of IADR (International Association for Dental Research, 2011). Former President of SIDA (Società Italiana Disfunzioni ed Algie Temporomandibolari - Italian Society of TMD and Algia, 2012-2013). Recipient of Honorary Degree in Dentistry from University of Malmö, Sweden (2018). Author of over 170 papers published in Italian and international peer-reviewed journals. International lecturer having presented extensively throughout Europe, Americas, and worldwide. Co-author of the International Classification of Orofacial Pain (ICOP). Expert on several international and national research committees. Reviewer for major international journals in orthodontics and orofacial pain. Educator having trained hundreds of orthodontists and TMD specialists through postgraduate programs at University of Naples.

DDS from University of Naples Federico II (1984, graduated with honors). Specialist in Orthodontics (1991). Full Professor appointment in Orthodontics and Clinical Gnathology at University of Naples Federico II. Director of Postgraduate School in Orthodontics and Master Course on Orofacial Pain and TMD.