Temporomandibular dysfunction and repositioning splint therapy

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this paper is assess the effectiveness of repositioning splint therapy in the treatment of Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD).

Materials and methods: 464 patients with TMD, characterized by an internal derangement and other symptoms including, but not limited to, jaw locking, pain to palpation, headaches, and crepitus, were treated with an anterior repositioning splint to recapture the disc, followed by a superior repositioning splint to allow the muscles to "seat" the condlyles in the fossae.

Results: 90% of the patients experienced a remission of the symptoms and were treated to a generally pain free, functionally satisfactory state.

Conclusion: The response to treatment noted in the 464 patients indicate that repositioning splint therapy is an effective treatment modality for temporomandibular disorders.