SOFT VERSUS HARD OCCLUSAL SPLINT THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS (TMDS)

Abstract

Introduction: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is interrelated with other neuromuscular components. Defects of any of these components or factors preventing them from working in harmony could lead to temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Management of TMD includes conservative and surgical interventions. Occlusal adjustment involves repositioning the mandible to a centric position by using prosthodontic or orthodontic appliances. Intraoral occlusal splints are designed to provide even and balanced occlusal contact without forcefully altering the mandibular rest position or permanently  altering the dental occlusion. Methods: This study will include 70 patients who had been diagnosed with MPD or ID of the TMJ in the form of reciprocal clicking. Patients were divided into two groups. The were treated for 6 months with either a vacuum-formed soft occlusal splint constructed from 2-mm-thick elastic rubber sheets (soft splint group) or a hard flat occlusal splint fabricated from transparent acrylic resin (hard splint group). Results: Comparison between hard and soft splints reveals that both the occlusal splints are effective in reduction of pain, clicking and tenderness and increase in mouth opening. But hard splints give better results in MPDS and disk derangement than soft splints. Conclusion: Both hard and soft occlusal splint therapies are beneficial in the treatment of TMD; however, soft splint therapy results in earlier improvement of some TMD symptoms. Therefore, this study supports the use of splint therapy for managing MPD and TMDs in patients with anterior disk displacement and reduction.