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Closed lock. A survey of 400 cases
1Dental Department, Westchester County Medical Center, Valhalla, N.Y.
Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Conservative treatment effectively restored mandibular motion in many temporomandibular joint (TMJ) closed lock cases. Early intervention for clicking TMJs is recommended to prevent future locking and improve outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) closed lock restricts mandibular motion.
- Many patients experience jaw restrictions with varying pain levels.
- Secondary TMJ disorders can accompany painful TMJ conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of conservative treatment for classic TMJ closed lock.
- To identify factors influencing treatment success.
- To determine if early intervention for clicking TMJs can prevent locking.
Main Methods:
- Examined 400 consecutive classic TMJ closed lock cases, with 301 undergoing conservative treatment.
- Utilized condylar distraction and mandibular appliances to restore motion and prevent closure during healing.
- Assessed treatment outcomes including successful, moderately successful, and failed cases.
Main Results:
- Mandibular range of motion was restored in treated patients.
- 209 of 301 conservatively treated patients had successful outcomes (69.4%).
- Occlusal factors were not primary causes; clicking preceded all observed locks.
Conclusions:
- Conservative closed lock treatment demonstrates significant success rates.
- Early treatment of clicking temporomandibular joints is advised to prevent progression to closed lock.
- Focusing on early symptoms may improve overall TMJ management outcomes.
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