Combined occlusal and pharmacological therapy in the treatment of temporo-mandibular disorders

Abstract

Objective: Aim of the present work is to assess the effectiveness of a scientific protocol built up to relieve pain in chronic temporo-mandibular disorders (TMD) using Michigan splint together with a pharmacological therapy compared to the traditional occlusal therapy by Michigan splint alone.

Patients: 35 adult patients, with signs and symptoms of TMD lasting more than 6 months, were enrolled into this study and divided into two groups: the first receiving occlusal therapy by Michigan splint and pharmacological therapy with Delorazepam and Thiocolchicoside, while the second receiving occlusal therapy by Michigan splint and "placebo" administration. The comparisons between the two experimental groups were assessed using a 5 steps visual-analogue scale (V.A.S.).

Results and conclusions: The outcomes from the experimental groups were statistically compared resulting significantly different with an improvement or disappearance of signs and symptoms in the treated group with respect to the placebo group at 12 and 18 months from the beginning of the experiment (p < 0.001).