Efficacy of stabilization splint therapy in temporomandibular disorders

In clinical practice it is commonly assumed that occlusal splints have therapeutic value in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), however there is still lack of sufficient evidence to support this claim. The purpose of this double-blind study was to evaluate the short-term (8-week) efficacy of a stabilization splint in subjects with temporomandibular disorders seeking treatment. Seventeen TMD patients were treated with stabilization splints for eight weeks. In addition to filling out questionnaires, all patients underwent a preoperative and postoperative clinical-functional investigation of the masticatory system.‏ Qualitative data were analyzed using Fisher exact and Chi-square tests and Wilcoxon signed ranks test was applied to report quantitative data. A statistically significant decrease was observed postoperatively in the Helkimo clinical dysfunction index (P=0.000) as well as the anamnestic dysfunction index (P=0.020). In addition there was a statistically significant decrease in muscle tenderness, after treatment (P=.002). The results of this study indicate that the use of a stabilization splint is beneficial in treatment of the signs and symptoms of TMD, and especially has a positive effect on muscle tenderness.