Effects of occlusal splint therapy on TMJ dysfunction.

Area of Science:

• Dental Science
• Orthodontics
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction presents complex symptoms.
• Occlusal splint therapy is a common treatment modality for TMJ dysfunction.
• Understanding the long-term effects of occlusal splint therapy is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of occlusal splint therapy on TMJ dysfunction symptoms.
• To assess symptom recurrence after the removal of occlusal splints.
• To analyze pantographic PRI scores as an objective measure of TMJ function.

Main Methods:

• 15 experimental patients with TMJ dysfunction received occlusal splint therapy.
• 486 pantograms were collected from experimental patients over 5 months to 1 year.
• 5 control patients were monitored without occlusal therapy.
• Occlusal splints were worn until symptom reduction and reproducible PRI scores.
• Patients were monitored pantographically after splint removal without adjustments.
• Statistical analysis of PRI scores compared experimental and control groups.

Main Results:

• Experimental patients showed an average PRI score drop of 21.7 points during therapy.
• Control patients had an average PRI score drop of only 3.8 points.
• All experimental patients experienced an increase in PRI scores after splint removal.

Conclusions:

• Occlusal splint therapy effectively reduces TMJ dysfunction symptoms.
• Symptom improvement is dependent on continued occlusal splint use.
• TMJ dysfunction symptoms tend to return upon cessation of occlusal splint therapy.