Myofascial pain dysfunction: treatments used by ADA members

A survey of 10,000 members of the American Dental Association was conducted in order to identify the most commonly used treatments for myofascial pain dysfunction (MPD). A questionnaire was used in which MPD was defined, all treatments (including referral) were listed, and a percentage-of-use estimate for each treatment was requested. Results from 2,544 questionnaires showed that the most commonly used treatments are: flat plane splints with anterior/canine guidance or posterior group function, occlusal equilibration, thermal packs, relaxation/stress management training, diet counseling, and medications with anti-inflammatory (nonopioid) analgesic and muscle relaxant properties. The results also showed considerable variation in the ways common treatments are performed. A call is issued for systematic and careful research on the outcomes of these and other treatments and their major variations.