Efficacy of Acrylic Splint in Management of Internal Derangement of Temperomandibular Joint

Abstract

Occlusal splint plays a great role in the treatment of internal derangement of temporomandibular joint. Temporomandibular disorders affect 25 % of the population of the world. The purpose of the study was to elucidate the effectiveness of occlusal splint in reduction of pain, increase mouth opening, elimination of clicking sound. This randomized controlled clinical trial was done on 26 patients in two groups. Group A received occlusal splint and Group B received medications with supportive care.    Monthly follow-up was done for a period of four months. In Group A and Group B, preoperative mean of mouth opening were 36.31 mm; and 39.77 mm. pain score 4.54 cm, clicking in 76.9% and 84.6% patients respectively. After 4 months of follow- up mouth opening 50.69 mm and 43.15 mm, pain score 0.154 cm and 0.69 cm, clicking 30.8% and 76.9% patients in both groups respectively. It may be conclude that the occlusal splint is highly efficient than medication and supportive care for managing of internal derangement of temporomandibular joint.