Analysis of splint weaning in temporomandibular disorder patients
10.14368/jdras.2021.37.4.225
- Author:
Bok Eum KIM
1
;
Kang Ryul MIN
;
Hyung Tack KIM
;
Hyung-Joon AHN
;
Seong Taek KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Journal of Dental Rehabilitation and Applied Science
2021;37(4):225-231
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:There are many studies on the indications and efficacy of splint therapy commonly used in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). However, there have been no studies on the splint weaning in terms of the splint use tapering period in relation to symptom improvement of TMD. This retrospective study aims to analyze a proper splint weaning method in patients with TMD based on symptom improvement.
Materials and Methods:The authors examined 130 TMD patients with TMJ disorders, masticatory muscle disorders, and clenching/bruxism who had received splint therapy (occlusion stabilization splint, anterior positioning splint) of patients who visited the Department of Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine at Yonsei University Dental Hospital from 2015 to 2020. They were evaluated according to the method to wean splints.
Results:The mean splint therapy period was 29.0 months, during which patients wore splints 7 days a week for 8.4 months, 3 - 4 days a week for 9.5 months, and finally 1 - 2 days a week for 11.1 months (a total of 29.0 months, about 2.5 years).
Conclusion:It seems that TMD symptoms can be alleviated and side effects such as occlusal change can be minimized if patients wear a splint 7 days a week for the first 6 months, followed by 3 - 4 days a week for the next 6 to 18 months, and finally 1 - 2 days a week after 18 months.
