Influence of Stabilization Splint Thickness on The Temporomandibular Disorders

Influence of Stabilization Splint Thickness on The Temporomandibular Disorders

The aim of the study is assessing the effect of the stabilization splint (SS) thickness on the temporomandibular disorder's and their symptoms; such as muscle or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, TMJ sounds, and limitation of mouth opening.

Participants are selected from patients who applied to the clinic with the complaint of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Symptoms are evaluated with RDC/TMD forms. Regarding the treatment plan, patients are divided into two groups; 2 mm-thick splint group (2 mm-TSG) and 4 mm-thick splint group (4 mm-TSG). They used SS's at night for 8 hours, and they were recalled on 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 6th months after splint insertion. Their symptoms and splints are checked.

Inclusion Criteria:

• No need for orthodontic treatment
• Maximum 2 teeth have been extracted
• Having efficient occlusal contacts
• Patients in the axis 1 and axis 2 groups according to Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Treated with stabilization splint before
• Partial edentulous patients
• Patients in the axis 3 group according to Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD)