The pattern of splint usage in the management of two common temporomandibular disorders. Part I: The anterior repositioning splint in the treatment of disc displacement with reduction

Abstract

Objective: To examine whether the anterior repositioning splint is suitable treatment for temporomandibular joint disc displacement with reduction and to determine the most appropriate pattern of usage.

Design: Prospective random control clinical trial.

Setting: Dental school clinic unit.

Subjects: Three groups of patients were treated, wearing the splint either during the day or at night or all the time.

Results: 69% of patients could be classed as improvers, by subjective and objective assessments, at final review (3 months after treatment with an anterior repositioning splint). 88% of patients who wore the splint for 24 hours per day improved over the 3-month period; this improvement was statistically significant when compared with the other two groups.

Conclusions: An anterior repositioning splint is an appropriate method of treatment for disc displacement with reduction. Patients should wear the splint 24 hours a day.