This article discussed, in the following three aspeccts, the standing of occlusion, gnathology and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in stomatology. And meanwhile highlighted the important meanings for every stomatologists. Firstly, from the history of dentistry or stomatology, the establishment of occlusion and gnathology drived the transformation of dentistry from a craft practice into an independent profession and discipline. Secondly, from the evolution of occlusion, jaw, and TMJ, this article clarified the distinctiveness and uniqueness of occlusion, jaw and TMJ that made modern human beings the most highly endowed. Thirdly, teeth and other oral organs not only have masticatory and digestive functions but also possess more complex social functions. Stomatognathic system is a more accurate conception than oral organs which is usually called. The conception of stomatognathic system gives a clearer sense of wholeness and more beneficial for accurate diagnosis and treatment of occlusion-related diseases as well as temporomandibular disorders. Finally, the author introduced five common examples regarding medical care and patient-doctor relationships in order to further emphasize the significance of the study of occlusion, gnathology and TMJ. It is necessary for not only general stomatoloaists but also other dental specialists in stomatology to clearly understand the principal theories and proficiently master the management capability on occlusion, gnathology and temporomandibular disorders.
本文从三方面论述牙合学、颌学和颞下颌关节（temporomandibular joint，TMJ）在口腔医学中的重要地位以及对口腔医师的重要性。第一，牙医学和口腔医学的发展史表明，最早正是牙合学和颌学的创建将仅为技艺活的牙匠转型为一个独立的专业和学科；第二，从牙合、颌和TMJ进化的演变过程论述牙合、颌和TMJ是现代人类之所以称为万物之灵的独特性及其在人体结构中的唯一性；第三，牙、口腔器官不仅具有咀嚼和消化功能，还具有更复杂的社会功能。因此，用口颌系统表述更有整体观念，也更有利于诊治咬合病和颞下颌关节紊乱病。本文用5个常见的医疗和医患问题说明牙合学、颌学和TMJ学的重要性，指出牙合学、颌学和TMJ学是全科及各亚专业口腔医师都必须熟练掌握的基本理论和处置技能。.