AbstractDysfunction of the temporomandibular joint and the associated musculature of the head and neck may be caused by physiologic imbalance or by psychologic stress. In the geriatric patient this dysfunction can cause severe pain and discomfort. Detailed steps in the diagnosis are presented, with emphasis on differentiation from pathologic conditions. Treatment consists of removal of the traumatic forces (chiefly dental abnormalities) causing the physiologic imbalance. The basic form of treatment (after initial adjunctive therapy) is in the field of prosthodontia. When such a treatment program is properly carried out, relief from symptoms can be expected in about 85 per cent of the patients.