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Cranio : the Journal of... May 2024This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative approaches on otologic signs and symptoms in patients affected by Menière's Disease (MD) and... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative approaches on otologic signs and symptoms in patients affected by Menière's Disease (MD) and temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
METHODS
PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched to identify studies presenting participants with a diagnosis of MD associated with TMD, conservative approaches as interventions, and modification of the otological signs and symptoms as outcome.
RESULTS
Out of 627 articles assessed for eligibility, two studies were included. Both studies showed a significant reduction of Situational Vertigo Questionnaire after treatment, number of vertigo spells, Functional Level Scale, Dizziness Hearing Inventory, and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, after occlusal splint therapy. No significant differences were found in terms of pure-tone audiometry average.
CONCLUSION
Findings of this systematic review suggested that conservative approaches might improve vertigo in patients affected by MD and TMD. However, the low number of included studies makes difficult to draw strong conclusions.
PubMed: 38711403
DOI: 10.1080/08869634.2024.2348973 -
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders May 2024To compare the treatment effectiveness of digitized and 3D-printed repositioning splints with that of conventional repositioning splints in the treatment of anterior... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
OBJECTIVE
To compare the treatment effectiveness of digitized and 3D-printed repositioning splints with that of conventional repositioning splints in the treatment of anterior displacement of the temporomandibular joint disc.
METHODS
This retrospective study included 96 patients with disc displacement of the anterior temporomandibular joint. They were treated with either digitally designed and 3D-printed repositioning splints or traditional splints and followed up for at least six months. Changes in signs and symptoms such as pain and mouth opening before and after treatment were recorded to evaluate treatment outcomes.
RESULTS
During the first month of treatment, both the digitally designed and 3D-printed repositioning splint groups (Group B) and the traditional repositioning splint group (Group A) showed significant increases in mouth opening, with increases of 4.93 ± 3.06 mm and 4.07 ± 4.69 mm, respectively, and there was no significant difference between the two groups. Both groups had a significant reduction in visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, with Group B showing a greater reduction of 1.946 ± 1.113 compared to 1.488 ± 0.978 in Group A (P < 0.05). By the sixth month, Group B's mouth opening further improved to 38.65 ± 3.22 mm (P < 0.05), while Group A's mouth opening did not significantly improve. Regarding pain, Group A's VAS score decreased by 0.463 ± 0.778 after one month, and Group B's score decreased by 0.455 ± 0.715; both groups showed significant reductions, but there was no significant difference between the two groups.
CONCLUSION
Compared with traditional repositioning splints, digitally designed and 3D-printed repositioning splints are more effective at reducing patient pain and improving mouth opening. 3D-printed repositioning splints are an effective treatment method for temporomandibular joint disc displacement and have significant potential for widespread clinical application.
Topics: Humans; Printing, Three-Dimensional; Male; Retrospective Studies; Female; Adult; Temporomandibular Joint Disc; Middle Aged; Temporomandibular Joint Disorders; Treatment Outcome; Joint Dislocations; Occlusal Splints; Young Adult; Pain Measurement; Range of Motion, Articular; Splints
PubMed: 38702659
DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07477-z -
International Journal of Oral and... May 2024Disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR) can cause pain and limitations in mouth opening, with a significant impact on function. The optimal management strategy for... (Review)
Review
Disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR) can cause pain and limitations in mouth opening, with a significant impact on function. The optimal management strategy for DDwoR is unclear. Treatments include conservative management such as mandibular manipulation, occlusal splints, and patient education/self-management, as well as arthrocentesis, which is a minimally invasive procedure. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to ascertain whether there is a role for arthrocentesis in the management of DDwoR. Studies analysing the outcomes pain and maximum mouth opening (MMO) in patients with DDwoR treated by arthrocentesis or occlusal coverage devices were eligible for inclusion. Following a database search, six studies with a total of 343 participants were found to be eligible for analysis (three prospective observational studies, one retrospective observational study, one non-randomized single-blind clinical trial, and one unblinded randomized clinical trial). When compared to occlusal coverage splints, arthrocentesis demonstrated a slight improvement in pain, although this was statistically non-significant (standardized mean difference (SMD) -0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.04 to 0.05, P = 0.07; I = 81%), and a significant improvement in MMO (SMD 0.79 mm, 95% CI 0.24-1.35 mm, P = 0.005; I = 79%). However, due to the significant heterogeneity between studies and the high risk of bias, along with the paucity of double-blind randomized controlled clinical trials, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn for this clinical question.
PubMed: 38702202
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijom.2024.03.013 -
Wiadomosci Lekarskie (Warsaw, Poland :... 2024Aim: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the developed algorithm for treatment and prevention measures aimed at eliminating clinical manifestations of...
OBJECTIVE
Aim: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the developed algorithm for treatment and prevention measures aimed at eliminating clinical manifestations of bruxism in young people.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
Materials and Methods: A cohort of 377 individuals aged 25 to 44 years underwent examination. Based on identified etiological factors, three distinct groups were delineated. Treatment and preventive strategies were then implemented and evaluated. Tailored treatment algorithms were devised for each group: Group one received selective grinding of supracontacts (up to 0.5-0.75 mm) and treatment for orthodontic issues utilizing removable and fixed orthodontic structures. Group two underwent finger self-massage of masticatory muscles, fabrication of biting dental splints, and anti-inflammatory drug therapy. Group three received sedative drug therapy in conjunction with psychiatric consultation, based on indications. Treatment efficacy was assessed 12 months post-initiation. Statistical analyses were conducted using Statistica 10.0 (StatSoft, Inc., USA) and Microsoft Office Excel 2010.
RESULTS
Results: In cases where orthodontic pathology and supracontacts predominated (r=0.99, p<0.05), employing selective grinding and orthodontic treatment according to specific indications yielded significant efficacy. This approach resulted in a notable reduction in bruxism severity, corroborated by occludogram results 12 months post-treatment initiation. Notably, 90.0% of occludogram indicators fell within the 90-100% range, accompanied by a decrease in the BruxChecker abrasion facets area (p<0.05). Further, there was a substantial enhancement in occlusal contacts (Ck=0.68, Ck =0.71, Ck =0.93). In instances where TMJ pathology predominated with high reliability (r=0.98, p<0.05), effective normalization of masticatory muscle tone and alleviation of temporomandibular joint issues were observed. After 12 months, palpation revealed minimal tenderness in specific muscle areas and normalization of electromyography readings from initial indicators (p<0.05). Moreover, when the psycho-emotional factor primarily contributed to bruxism etiology (r=0.97, p<0.05), medical intervention proved effective. This approach led to bruxism disappearance and normalization of the psycho-emotional state within 12 months (p<0.05).
CONCLUSION
Conclusions: The conducted studies provide high-confidence evidence of the effectiveness of bruxism treatment when diagnosing the prevailing etiological factor and targeting its specific impact, leading to the normalization of all other factors, a reduction in bruxism intensity, and its complete disappearance.
Topics: Humans; Adult; Male; Female; Bruxism; Treatment Outcome; Algorithms; Occlusal Splints; Cohort Studies
PubMed: 38691781
DOI: 10.36740/WLek202403107 -
Cureus Mar 2024Background Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) represent a prevalent group of conditions impacting the temporomandibular joint. Among the therapeutic interventions,...
Effectiveness of Occlusal Splint Therapy in Moderating Temporomandibular Joint Disorders With Joint Displacement: A Retrospective Analysis Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography.
Background Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) represent a prevalent group of conditions impacting the temporomandibular joint. Among the therapeutic interventions, occlusal splint therapy has gained recognition for its potential to address TMD symptoms, particularly in cases involving joint displacement. Objective This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of occlusal splint therapy in cases of moderate TMD with joint displacement, focusing on changes in condylar position, joint morphology, and patient-reported outcomes. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted involving 148 participants who underwent occlusal splint therapy between January 2018 and December 2020. Data were collected through cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging for precise assessments of condylar position and joint morphology. Ethical approval was obtained, and participants provided informed consent. Baseline characteristics, medical history, and TMD severity were recorded. Occlusal splint therapy included individualized fabrication, occlusal analysis, adjustments for optimal fit, and prescribed wear schedules. Follow-up included CBCT scans at specified intervals (three months and six months), with participant-reported outcomes collected. The data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0 (Released 2013; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Paired t-tests or nonparametric equivalents were employed to assess changes in condylar position and joint morphology. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore potential factors influencing treatment outcomes. The significance level was set at p < 0.05 for all statistical tests. Results The entire cohort (n = 148) had a mean age of 32.5 years (± 8.1), with a balanced gender distribution. Changes in condylar position revealed a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.03), with a mean decrease of 0.2 mm posttreatment. Joint morphology changes indicated increased joint space width (p = 0.01), improved disc position (p = 0.02), and nonsignificant alterations in bony structures (p = 0.10). Patient-reported outcomes demonstrated significant improvements in pain levels, jaw functionality, and satisfaction (all p < 0.001). Age and gender subgroup analyses showed consistent improvements in condylar position, joint morphology, and patient-reported outcomes across different groups. Conclusion Occlusal splint therapy demonstrated effectiveness in improving condylar position, joint morphology, and patient-reported outcomes in cases of moderate TMD with joint displacement. The findings underscore the potential of occlusal splint therapy as a viable intervention for managing TMD, providing valuable insights for clinicians and researchers.
PubMed: 38690507
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57300 -
Dental and Medical Problems Apr 2024The mechanical reliability of occlusal splints and their long-term behavior are significant factors determining the clinical outcome of temporomandibular disorder (TMD)...
BACKGROUND
The mechanical reliability of occlusal splints and their long-term behavior are significant factors determining the clinical outcome of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) therapy. However, improvements are still needed in this area.
OBJECTIVES
This in vitro study aimed to (1) compare the hardness and flexural properties of materials manufactured using 3 techniques for occlusal splint fabrication (conventional heat curing, thermoforming followed by light curing, and three-dimensional (3D) printing) and (2) analyze the effect of artificial aging on the properties of the materials.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
A total of 120 disc-shaped specimens were manufactured for the Shore D hardness evaluation, and 120 bar-shaped specimens were fabricated for the flexural properties evaluation (n = 15 for each group). Each material was tested in 2 groups of specimens, non-aged and artificially aged (stored for 90 days in water at 37°C). Statistical differences were assessed using one-way or two-way parametric analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey's or Šídák's post-hoc test, or the non-parametric KruskalWallis test with Dunn's post-hoc test. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
RESULTS
The mechanical properties of the materials varied significantly. Among the non-aged materials, the 3D-printed resin exhibited the highest Shore D hardness (85.3D), but it decreased significantly after 90 days of water storage (80.4D, p < 0.0001). The unpolished heat curing acrylic showed the highest resistance to artificial aging (p = 0.0436). However, its hardness decreased significantly after polishing (81.0D vs. 83.4D, p = 0.0015). The conventional heat curing material also exhibited superior flexural properties (σ = 89.63 MPa, E = 2616 MPa). All tested materials were susceptible to deterioration due to aging.
CONCLUSIONS
The conventional method of occlusal splint fabrication remains the optimal choice, particularly for long-term use. However, it is still necessary to develop materials that are resistant to aging in order to ensure successful clinical performance.
PubMed: 38686973
DOI: 10.17219/dmp/174708 -
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation Apr 2024The term temporomandibular disorder (TMD) indicates a set of musculoskeletal conditions involving temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory musculature, and related... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The term temporomandibular disorder (TMD) indicates a set of musculoskeletal conditions involving temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory musculature, and related anatomical structures. Pain is the most common clinical manifestation of TMD, and the auditory system might be involved and affected, through tinnitus, dizziness, otalgia and ear fullness sensation.
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this systematic review of randomised controlled trails (RCTs) was to evaluate the efficacy of rehabilitative approaches on otologic symptoms in patients with TMD.
METHODS
PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were systematically searched from the inception until 8th October 2023 to identify RCTs presenting participants with a diagnosis of TMD associated with otologic signs and symptoms, rehabilitative approaches as interventions, and modification of the otological symptoms as outcome.
RESULTS
Out of 931 papers suitable for title/abstract screening, 627 articles were assessed for eligibility. Five studies were included reporting the efficacy of occlusal splint therapy, low-level laser therapies, and physical therapy in patients diagnosed whit secondary otalgia or tinnitus associated with TMD. No RCTs evaluating other otologic symptoms, ear fullness, dizziness or vertigo were found.
CONCLUSIONS
Results of this systematic review suggested that rehabilitative approaches might be effective in improving secondary otalgia and tinnitus in TMD patients. Thus, further RCTs with a higher level of evidence and more representative samples should be conducted to better understand the effects of TMD therapy on otologic complains.
PubMed: 38685701
DOI: 10.1111/joor.13716 -
Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society Apr 2024The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different treatment modalities for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and their relevance to chronic cervical pain... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Evaluation of the effect of different kinds of treatment modalities for temporomandibular joint pain and its relevance to chronic cervical pain: A randomized controlled trial.
AIM
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different treatment modalities for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and their relevance to chronic cervical pain after 12 months.
SETTINGS AND DESIGN
This was a randomized controlled trial.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Forty-eight participants with chronic cervical and TMJ pain were selected using research diagnostic criteria and randomized into four groups (n = 12), which included control, soft splints, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and low-level laser (LLL). The cervical and TMJ pain was recorded using visual analog scale (VAS) scores at baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Occlusal equilibration was done for all groups except for the control.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED
The mean pain scores were statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and posthoc test.
RESULTS
The mean VAS scores in TMJ pain patients between the four groups at baseline and at final follow-up were 7.27 ± 1.29 in Group 1, 7.53 ± 0.70 in Group 2, 7.76 ± 0.80 in Group 3, and 7.61 ± 0.61 in Group 4. The mean difference between Groups 1 and 3, Groups 1 and 4, and Groups 2 and 3 was statistically significant (P < 0.00). Pearson correlation test yielded a mild and negative correlation between TMJ and cervical pain.
CONCLUSION
TENS and LLL were found to be equally effective in reducing pain in the jaw joint region, followed by soft splints, and there was no correlation between TMJ and cervical pain.
Topics: Humans; Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation; Female; Temporomandibular Joint Disorders; Neck Pain; Male; Chronic Pain; Adult; Low-Level Light Therapy; Pain Measurement; Middle Aged; Occlusal Splints; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 38650337
DOI: 10.4103/jips.jips_468_23 -
Current Pain and Headache Reports Apr 2024Laser acupuncture (LA) demonstrates promising results in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. However, its effects on temporomandibular disorder (TMD) are not yet... (Review)
Review
Effectiveness of Laser Acupuncture for Reducing Pain and Increasing Mouth Opening Range in Individuals with Temporomandibular Disorder: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
Laser acupuncture (LA) demonstrates promising results in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. However, its effects on temporomandibular disorder (TMD) are not yet fully understood. Thus, the aim of this systematic review and network meta-analysis was to assess the effectiveness of LA on pain intensity and maximum mouth opening range (MMO) related to TMD. A search was carried out in 11 electronic databases and references of included studies to locate randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that evaluated LA as a primary treatment for TMD. The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 tool. Network meta-analysis was conducted on the MetaInsight platform, considering the pain intensity and counseling (C) as the outcome of reference. The GRADE system was used to assess the certainty of the evidence.
RECENT FINDINGS
Five studies evaluated pain intensity, four with a high risk of bias and one with a low risk. Two studies evaluated pain intensity on palpation (one with high and one with low risk of bias), and one study with high risk of bias evaluated MMO. Laser parameters were: 690-810 nm, 40-150 mW, and 7.5-112.5 J/cm. Occlusal splint (OS) [- 2.47; CI 95% - 3.64, - 1.30] and Physiotherapy (PT) [-2.64; CI 95% - 3.94, - 1.34] reduced pain intensity compared to C. The ranking of treatments in order of effectiveness was PT > OS > LA > C > CR (craniopuncture). The certainty of the evidence was very low or low. The data do not support the indication of LA for the treatment of TMDs and new placebo-controlled RCTs must be conducted to demonstrate its effectiveness more precisely.
PubMed: 38648000
DOI: 10.1007/s11916-024-01251-5 -
BMC Oral Health Apr 2024Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a grouping of heterogeneous disorders with multifactorial origins. Stabilization splints (SS) have demonstrated an acceptable...
BACKGROUND
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a grouping of heterogeneous disorders with multifactorial origins. Stabilization splints (SS) have demonstrated an acceptable treatment effect in TMD. The possible changes at the skeletal, dental, and soft tissue levels need to be addressed to evaluate the benefit/risk ratio of this therapeutic procedure. Accordingly, this study aimed to three‑dimensionally evaluate skeletal, dentoalveolar and soft tissue changes after SS treatment for patients with TMD.
METHODS
This retrospective study included 74 adult patients with myofascial and/or intra-articular disorders (25 males and 49 females), with an average age of 22.88 ± 4.8 years, who underwent SS treatment. Pre- and post-treatment Cone beam computed tomography were analysed using Invivo 6.0.3 software. The primary outcome was the vertical skeletal and dentoalveolar changes, while the secondary outcomes were the anteroposterior skeletal, dentoalveolar and soft tissue changes. Paired t-test and Wilcoxon rank sum test were used for statistical analyses.
RESULTS
For the primary outcome; skeletally, there was a significant increase in mandibular plane inclination (difference: 0.82°±1.37), decrease facial height ratio (difference: 0.45%±1.07) and at the dentoalveolar level, the inclination of the functional (FOP-SN, FOP-FH) and bisecting (BOP-SN, BOP-FH) occlusal planes exhibited a significant increase too (difference: 0.38 ± 1.43°, 0.49 ± 1.62°, 0.44 ± 1.29° and 0.41 ± 1.17°, respectively) and also a decrease in the overbite (difference: -0.54 ± 0.83). For the secondary outcomes; there was a significant decrease in mandibular position (SNB) (difference: 1.60 ± 1.36°) and increase in the overjet (difference: 0.93 ± 1.04, p < 0.001) and a significant lower lip retrusion (difference: 0.33 ± 1.01 mm p < 0.01), was observed too.
CONCLUSIONS
SS therapy resulted in significant vertical skeletal and dentoalveolar changes that were manifested mainly by facial height ratio, mandibular and occlusal plane changes, and to a lesser extent, significant anteroposterior skeletal, dentoalveolar, and soft tissue changes in the form of mandibular position, increased overjet and a more retrusive lower lip. These changes should be considered during patients' selection prior to initiating SS therapy.
Topics: Male; Adult; Female; Humans; Adolescent; Young Adult; Maxilla; Retrospective Studies; Splints; Cephalometry; Mandible; Overbite; Malocclusion, Angle Class II; Temporomandibular Joint Disorders; Temporomandibular Joint
PubMed: 38643111
DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04260-3