RA.DI.CA. Splint Therapy in the Management of Temporomandibular Joint Displacement without Reduction

Area of Science:

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
• Orthodontics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc displacement without reduction is a condition affecting jaw function.
• Conservative treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and prevent structural damage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate clinical and instrumental changes following RA.DI.CA splint therapy for TMJ disc displacement without reduction.
• To assess the efficacy of this orthopedic splint in improving joint function and reducing pain.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving patients with TMJ disc displacement without reduction treated with RA.DI.CA splints for 6 months.
• Clinical assessments (pain, mouth opening) and instrumental evaluations (MRI, electrognathography) were performed at baseline and follow-up.
• Statistical analysis included ANOVA and Wilcoxon tests to determine significant changes over time.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in arthralgia, headache, neck pain, and mouth opening.
• Disc recapture was achieved in 70% of patients, along with enhanced mandibular movement quality.
• RA.DI.CA splint therapy demonstrated a positive orthopedic effect, facilitating joint mobilization.

Conclusions:

• RA.DI.CA splint therapy can aid in recovering disc position and improving functional adaptation in TMJ disc displacement.
• The treatment helps prevent the progression of structural damage and recurrence of symptoms.