The pattern of splint usage in the management of two common temporomandibular disorders. Part I: The anterior repositioning splint in the treatment of disc displacement with reduction.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether the anterior repositioning splint is suitable treatment for temporomandibular joint disc displacement with reduction and to determine the most appropriate pattern of usage.

DESIGN

Prospective random control clinical trial.

SETTING

Dental school clinic unit.

SUBJECTS

Three groups of patients were treated, wearing the splint either during the day or at night or all the time.

RESULTS

69% of patients could be classed as improvers, by subjective and objective assessments, at final review (3 months after treatment with an anterior repositioning splint). 88% of patients who wore the splint for 24 hours per day improved over the 3-month period; this improvement was statistically significant when compared with the other two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

An anterior repositioning splint is an appropriate method of treatment for disc displacement with reduction. Patients should wear the splint 24 hours a day.