The Relationship Between Orthognathodontics and Physiotherapy: A Scoping Review

Background/Objectives: The increasing complexity of the most common conditions that require orthodontic or gnathological interventions may need physiotherapeutic evaluation and treatment. This link is increasingly relevant in patients who suffer from temporo-mandibular and cranio-cervico-mandibular disorders (TMDs/CCMDs). The aim of this scoping review is to map the available evidence of clinical and research links between orthodontics/gnathology and physiotherapy, identifying the areas of interdisciplinary collaboration, possible clinical applicability and research gaps. Methods: We performed an electronic search on online databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane) to identify papers published between 2016 and 2026, following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Results: A total of 50 publications were included and classified into three thematic areas: age of growth and functional habits (n = 12); pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation in orthognathic surgery (n = 8); and management of TMD/CCMDs (n = 30). The included studies comprised systematic reviews, RCTs, longitudinal studies, retrospective studies, narrative reviews, and expert consensus documents. Discussion: Management of TMDs/CCMDs represents the most investigated field in which multidisciplinary collaboration between orthodontists/gnathologists and physiotherapists is documented. In paediatric orthodontics, studies are predominantly diagnostic and observational, suggesting a common field of diagnosis and intervention. In orthognathic surgery, longitudinal studies report that integrated physical therapy facilitates progressive neuromuscular adaptation and functional recovery. In TMDs/CCMDs management, conservative, multimodal and patient-tailored approaches are increasingly supported as the standard of care. Management of psychological and behavioural comorbidities in chronic conditions represents a relevant and underexplored area. Conclusions: The mapped literature identifies an increasing interest in interdisciplinary collaboration between orthodontists/gnathologists and physiotherapists, particularly through combined conservative protocols. However, the high clinical heterogeneity highlights the need for further high-quality studies. Future research should develop validated common assessment tools, standardised shared protocols, and targeted systematic reviews.