Occlusal equilibration and other stomatognathic treatment in patients with mandibular dysfunction and headache

Thirty patients with craniomandibular disorders and headache were randomly divided into two groups. One received occlusal equilibration (O group) and the other (S group) routine stomatognathic treatment, including an occlusal splint. The outcome of treatment was evaluated by means of a questionnaire, visual analogue scales, and clinical examination. In both groups, the patients reported reduction of symptoms, but the clinical dysfunction score used was significantly diminished only in the S group. A combined treatment regimen, including an occlusal splint, was more effective than occlusal adjustment alone, especially with regard to clinical signs of dysfunction.