Abstract
Introduction: The term temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is used to define a set of disorders involving the masticatory muscles, temporomandibular joint and adjacent segments. Its main symptoms are pain, chewing difficulty and constant headache, where, as a treatment, physiotherapy is widely used with the objective of promoting analgesia and mobility of this joint. Objective: To analyze the physiotherapeutic approach in the treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction, describing the objectives and results of the techniques and resources used. Methodology: This study is an integrative review of literature based on the inclusion of specific descriptors in the PubMed, SciELO and LILACS databases, which included studies published in full between 2010 and 2018 in Portuguese and English, and abstracts, incomplete texts, periodicals paid, reports and case studies, revisions and works without scientific basis were excluded. Results: From the insertion of descriptors 169 studies were found, which, after filtering per year, language, gratuity and the available full text was only 56. These had their titles, abstracts and methodology evaluated, resulting in 7 clinical trials, with samples between 10 and 60 patients, that used resources and physiotherapeutic techniques for the treatment of TMD. Conclusion: Through the results of this study, it can be concluded that physical therapy through electrotherapy, thermotherapy and kinesiotherapy are effective in reducing pain, joint mobility and improving sensitivity, thus contributing significantly to the treatment of TMD.