Occlusal stabilization appliance: evaluation of its efficacy in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders

• Published in: Journal of applied oral science 2004-09, Vol.12 (3), p.238-243
• Main Authors: Tanaka, Elisa Emi, Arita, Emiko Saito, Shibayama, Bunji
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: DENTISTRY, ORAL SURGERY & MEDICINE
• ISSN: 1678-7757; 1678-7765; 1678-7757
• DOI: 10.1590/S1678-77572004000300015

Occlusal stabilization appliances or splints are the most widely employed method for treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the most indicated imaging modality to evaluate the components of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Forty patients with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders were treated with splints for a mean period of 12 months, comprising regular semimonthly follow-ups. After stabilization of the clinical status, occlusal adjustments and MRI evaluation were performed. It was concluded that the success of this kind of treatment are related to the total (70%) or partial improvement (22.5%) of painful symptomatology and to the functional reestablishment of the craniomandibular complex. The MRI allowed evaluation and also the conclusion that the splints provide conditions for the organism to develop means to resist to the temporomandibular disorders by means of elimination of several etiologic factors. Moreover, after treatment the patients are able to cope with disc displacements with larger or smaller tolerance.