Effect of two desensitizing agents applied previous to in-office bleaching on the degree of whitening and dentin sensitivity: A randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of two desensitizing agents applied before in-office bleaching, on the degree of whitening and dentin sensitivity. METHODS: Participants were randomly assigned to the groups, according to the desensitizing agent used, with n=10 for each one. The bleaching was performed with 35% hydrogen peroxide, divided according to the desensitizing agent used prior to the bleaching procedure: Placebo (PL); Desensibilize KF with potassium nitrate and 0.2% sodium fluoride (PN); and Oxa-Gel with potassium oxalate (PO). The level of color saturation was assessed at the beginning of treatment and after 1 week of its completion by means of comparative method with the aid of a color scale. The degree of sensitivity (DS) was noted by the subjects with the aid of a visual scale throughout the time that the bleaching agent remained in contact with the teeth (5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 minutes) as well as 1, 24 and 48 hours after the end of application. Pain and the degree of color saturation were evaluated using the Shapiro-Wilk test. The DS was assessed by Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests. The color was evaluated by ANOVA and Tukey's HSD. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the degree of bleaching among the groups. DS was significantly more accentuated in the 48-hour period. The DS was significantly higher for the PL group and significantly lower for the PO group. The desensitizing agents reduced the DS without affecting the effectiveness of the bleaching treatment. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Both desensitizing agents provided greater control over pain compared to the placebo group. Potassium oxalate showed greater pain control than potassium nitrate. Both desensitizing agents tested did not interfere in the degree of whitening.

Influence of Ozonated Water as an Irrigant and Dentin-cleaning Solution on the Bond Strength of Fiberglass Pins.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of ozonated water used as an irrigant and dentin-cleaning solution on the bond strength of fiberglass pins in vitro, comparing it with the commonly used solutions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Seventy-seven bovine roots were randomly divided into seven groups according to the irrigant and dentin-cleaning solution to be used: HP/HP, 2.5% sodium hypochlorite; DA/DA, distilled water; CHX/CHX, 2% chlorhexidine; OA/OA, 4 ppm ozonated water; HP/DA; HP/CHX; and HP/OA. In each group, the root canals were endodontically prepared by using the corresponding irrigant and stored in DA; after 7 days, they were cleared and cleaned with the corresponding cleaning solution. The fiberglass pins were cemented by using self-adhesive cement. After 7 days, the roots were sectioned (six discs each) and submitted to the push-out test. The type of fracture was analyzed with a 4.5x stereoscopic magnifying glass. The data were analyzed by the analysis of variance and the Tukey test at a 5% significance level. RESULTS: The OA/OA (11.67), HP/HP (11.21), and HP/OA (9.71) groups showed the highest mean push-out bond strength (MPa) in the cervical third. The same trend was maintained in the middle and apical thirds. CONCLUSION: Ozonated water and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite are the most relevant solutions for root dentin treatment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Teeth treated with ozonated water, sodium hypochlorite, and a combination of the two showed greater bond strength than those treated with other solutions.

Immediate and 6-month Bond Strengths of Different Adhesives in the Oral Environment.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the microtensile bond strength (µTBS) of three adhesives to dentin after 1 week and 6 months in an oral environment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Class I cavities were prepared in the third molars of 30 patients and randomized into 3 groups according to the following adhesives: Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (SM), Clearfil Protect Bond (CF), and Scotchbond Universal (UN). These molars were then subdivided into two groups according to the exposure time in the oral environment: one week (1W) and 6 months (6M). After the exposure time, the teeth were extracted, cut into beams, and submitted to the µTBS test. The data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test and two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post-hoc test with a significance level of 5%, and fracture modes were analyzed. RESULTS: The bond strengths in MPa (mean ± SD) were SM-1W: 39.5 ± 7.9; SM-6M: 29.7 ± 1.8; CF-1W: 30.5 ± 1.4; CF-6M: 28.6 ± 4.1; UN-1W: 30.6 ± 3.2; and UN-6M: 26.7 ± 2.0. The SM-1W group exhibited significantly increased µTBS compared with the other groups. After 6 months in the oral environment, a significant reduction of µTBS was only observed for the SM group, whereas similar bond strengths were observed for the other groups. SM-1W exhibited a predominance of mixed fractures, whereas the other groups showed a predominance of adhesive fractures. CONCLUSIONS: The adhesives which were applied in the self-etching mode maintained bond strength after six months in the oral environment. A reduction of µTBS was only observed for the three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive.

The Effect of Resin Composites and Polishing Procedure on Periodontal Tissue Parameters in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus.

The aim of this study was to establish relationship between restorative resin and periodontal tissues of patients with diabetes mellitus. We selected 30 patients, 15 patients with diabetes mellitus with a total of 30 restorations and 15 patients without diabetes mellitus with a total of 49 restorations and the periodontal parameters and restorations parameters were evaluated. The total period was 12 months. The results showed a significant improvement in periodontal parameters assessed (p < 0.05). It may be concluded that over the 12-month period, there was no adverse reaction to periodontal tissue as a result of various polishing regimes of a restorative resin-based composite in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Development and Evaluation of a New Orthodontic Ligature: Frictional Force Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the friction of different ligature modes used in orthodontics, and to propose a new ligature model for conventional brackets ("H low-friction orthodontic ligature). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Samples were randomly divided into seven experimental groups: (1) resin H ligature (H3D), designed by the authors of this study and produced in a 3D printer, with conventional bracket; (2) metal H ligature (HFM), with conventional bracket; (3) passive self-ligating bracket (SLP); (4) "8" low-friction unconventional elastic (LT8), with conventional bracket; (5) loose conventional metal ligature (MLS), with conventional bracket; (6) conventional metal ligature fully tightened (MLT), with conventional bracket; (7) conventional elastic ligature (CEL), with conventional bracket-control. All samples were subjected to mechanical static friction testing using the EMIC DL 2000 universal testing machine. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: To assess the normality requirement, the Shapiro-Wilk test was used, which showed a non-normal distribution for the means of the groups (p < 0.05). Therefore, statistical tests were performed to assess the existence of statistically significant differences between the groups through the Kruskal-Wallis, followed by Dunn's test, pairwise comparison, p < 0.05. RESULTS: The results obtained showed lower friction values for HFM (0.002 kgf), SLP (0.003 kgf), and LT8 (0.004 kgf)-these did not differ statistically from each other. These were followed by H3D (0.020 kgf), MLS (0.049 kgf), CEL (0.12 kgf), and, finally, MLT (0.21 kgf). CONCLUSION: The lowest friction value was found for the metal H ligature, similar to the self-ligating bracket and the "8" low-friction unconventional elastic. The resin H ligature presented intermediate friction values and the highest friction force was found for the MLT group.

Single-session associative protocol for dentin hypersensitivity management: a 1-year randomized, blinded clinical study.

Objectives: This study aimed to establish a single-session associative protocol for non-restorative management of dentin hypersensitivity (DH). Materials and Methods: Twenty-four individuals with DH and a minimum sensitivity level of 4 on the visual analog scale (VAS) were selected. The study was conducted in a split-mouth design, with each participant (n = 20) having at least 1 affected tooth in all quadrants. The management protocols consisted of control group: universal adhesive, Neural Desensitizing Protocol group: 5% potassium nitrate, Mixed Desensitizing Protocol (PAM) group: 5% sodium fluoride and 5% potassium nitrate, Remineralizing Desensitizing Protocol (PDR) group: surface-partially reacted glass technology photopolymerizable varnish. Evaluations were performed immediately after application, at 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, and 12 months using the VAS sensitivity test. Results: The scores were subjected to statistical analysis using the Friedman test (p < 0.05), Durbin-Conover test (p < 0.05), and Wilcoxon test (p < 0.05). At the 12-month evaluation, all groups showed statistically significant differences compared to the initial assessment. For the evaluation after 12 months, there was a statistically significant difference between the PAM group, the control group, and the PDR group. Conclusions: It can be concluded that all groups were effective in controlling DH, but there were significant results in the control group and PDR group. The clinical relevance of this study is to demonstrate that the application of single-session desensitizing protocols can be effective in controlling DH for up to 12 months. Trial Registration: Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry Identifier: RBR-4r63d7s.

The Technique and Material Used to Join Transfers Affect the Accuracy and Final Fit of Implant-Supported Prostheses-In Vitro Study.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the linear dimensional change of polymerization of three materials and two techniques of the union of molding transfers for implant-supported prostheses used in the open-tray technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A nylon maxilla-shaped matrix was made, two osseous integrated implants were installed, and, over these two, straight conical mini-pillars were installed. Open-tray impression transfers were attached to the mini-pillars, and a silicone guide was made to standardize the connections between the transfers. The samples were divided into six groups (n = 20): PA (Pattern Resin LS, chemically activated acrylic resin in the single step technique); DU (Durallay, chemically activated acrylic resin in the single step technique); BI (Protemp4, bisacrylic resin in the single step technique); PAC (Pattern Resin LS in sectioning and joining of segments technique); DUC (Durallay, in sectioning and joining of segments technique); and BIC (Protemp4, in sectioning and joining of segments technique). The linear dimensional change values that occurred among these transfers were measured in a profile projector (VB300; Starret) coupled to the Quadra Check device, with a resolution of 0.001 mm, performed by a single calibrated operator. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data were submitted to a two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test (p < 0.01). RESULTS: Statistically significant mean values were found in all comparisons. The PA showed the lowest mean values (µm) of linear dimensional change, both in the single-step technique and in the sectioning and joining technique, in the following order: BI 255.73 (3.81), DU 173.75 (2.30), PA 95.97 (3.20), BIC 23.82 (1.71), DUC 20.85 (2.53), and PAC 13.27 (2.09). The single-step technique showed the worst results, regardless of the material. CONCLUSION: The sectioning and joining technique reduced the dimensional change in all materials, and the Pattern Resin LS showed the lowest shrinkage mean values, followed by Durallay and Protemp4.

Microbiological evaluation of ultrasonic nebulization for disinfecting dental impressions.

Disinfecting dental impressions is necessary to decrease the risk of cross-contamination in dental offices. Ultrasonic nebulization has been mentioned as a microbicidal technique that can be used to disinfect contaminated dental impressions. This study compared the microbicidal effect of 2% glutaraldehyde and 0.2% peracetic acid for the disinfection of dental impressions made with vinyl polysiloxane, using 2 disinfection methods: immersion and ultrasonic nebulization. Bactericial efficacy was examined using Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus atrophaeus as indicators. Thirty impressions were obtained and distributed randomly in 5 groups (n = 6). Group 1 was immersed in 2% glutaraldehyde immersion for 10 minutes, Group 2 was immersed in 0.2% peracetic acid for 10 minutes, Group 3 underwent ultrasonic nebulization for 10 minutes in 2% glutaraldehyde solution, Group 4 underwent ultrasonic nebulization for 10 minutes in 0.2% peracetic acid solution, and Group 5 was a control group that received no disinfectant. Both solutions experienced a 100% reduction in microorganisms following ultrasonic nebulization, as did peracetic acid following immersion; however, immersion in glutaraldehyde demonstrated lower values of reduction in B atrophaeus group, with a statistically significant difference compared with the other experimental groups.

Composite resin restorations of non-carious cervical lesions in patients with diabetes mellitus and periodontal disease: pilot study.

Diabetes mellitus is a set of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from absolute or relative deficiency in insulin secretion by the pancreas and/or impaired insulin action in target tissues. Oral health maintenance through health care, as well as metabolic control are important measures for the overall health of diabetic patients. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between biocompatibility of composite resin restorations with different nanoparticles, polishing in abfraction lesions in anterior and posterior teeth with periodontal tissues in patients with diabetes mellitus. We selected 20 patients--10 patients with diabetes mellitus and 10 patients without diabetes mellitus-, but with a total of 30 restorations in each group receiving composite resin restorations, who were evaluated for periodontal purposes: Plaque Index, Gingival Index; Probing Depth, Clinical Attachment Level and Bleeding on Probing. In addition, the restorations will receive assessments according to criteria for Marginal Adaptation, Anatomical Shape, Marginal Discoloration, ormation of caries, Post-operative Sensitivity and Retention. The total period was 90 days. The results showed a significant improvement in periodontal parameters assessed (p < 0.05) in both groups. With regard to assessments of the restorations, it was observed that there was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) among all criteria evaluated within the 90-day period. Thus, we conclude that in a short period (90 days) there is clinical biocompatibility of composite resin with nanoparticles restorations in abfraction lesions and periodontal tissues of patients with diabetes mellitus, regardless the type of polish these restorations receive.

Auricular acupuncture in TMD - A sham-controlled, randomized, clinical trial.

This study evaluated the effect of auricular acupuncture (AA) on physical (PA) and emotional (EA) aspects of patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and compared the effect of AA with those of Sham and occlusal splints (OS). In accordance with the CONSORT guidelines, patients with TMDs were evaluated by axes I and II of the RDC-TMD. The patients were allocated among three groups: OS, Sham and AA; and followed for 8 weeks. Both intragroup and intergroup evaluation for quantitative variables were analyzed with ANOVA, one-way, followed by the Tukey test. Qualitative variables were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis, and Dunn tests (intergroup evaluation) and for intragroup analyses, the Friedman and Wilcoxon tests were applied. At the end of the experiment, the chi-squared test was applied to compare the three groups with respect to the number of variables that had shown improved scores. The adopted level of significance for all tests was α = 5%. Intragroup analysis showed that, in the Sham group, no improvement in performance was seen in either EA and significant was improvements in 5 variables for 9 for PA, while in the AA group, significant improvements were observed in 2 variables for EA and in 9 for PA. In the OS group at the end of this study, significant improvements were observed in 8 and 8 variables for EA and PA, respectively. The analysis of therapies used revealed that the number of variables exhibiting significantly improved outcomes after treatment was similar between the AA and OS groups, whereas the sham group showed statistically significant differences when compared with the other two groups. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that AA applied at a specific TMJ ear point was able to bring about improvements in patients with TMDs, with outcomes similar to those in patients treated with an OS. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: RBR-69ynnw (Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials).

Effect of maintenance therapy with or without the use of chlorhexidine in teeth restored with composite resin in patients with diabetes mellitus.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of maintenance therapy with or without the use of 0.12% chlorhexidine in the periodontal tissues of patients with diabetes mellitus who had carious lesions restored with composed resin. Twenty patients were selected, all of whom had diabetes mellitus in addition to carious cervical lesions in previously treated teeth. After 90 days, improvement in plaque and gingival indices and probing depth were noticed among patients in the group that received 0.12% chlorhexidine.

Microleakage of a self-adhesive resin cement after post cementation.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the microleakage a self-adhesive cement recently marketed Rely X U100 (3M ESPE). Thirty roots of bovine teeth with 14 mm long were restored with self-adhesive cement and Glassix fiber post DC3 (FGM). Roots were randomly divided into three groups (n=10) according to the technique of placement of the cementing agent: G1 - Centrix syringe; G2 - Lentulo drill and G3 - Manual technical. After cementation, provisional restorations were fabricated with composite resin (Opallis/FGM) without the use adhesive system. After they were finished, polished and thermo cycled by 1000 cycles, in water at temperature of 5 degrees C and 55 degrees C, 30 seconds in each bath. For microleakage test each group of roots was immersed in recipients with Rodhamine B dye solution buffered at 2%, during 24 hours. After this time, the samples were washed in tap water, sectioned and evaluation of dye leakage. The values of infiltration were obtained by the qualitative method (scoring) and statistical analysis using Kruskal-Wallis test and also by the quantitative method (Image Tool) and statistical analysis using ANOVA one way. For both tests, no significant difference between the techniques of placement of the self-adhesive cement. Based on these findings, micro-infiltration was present in all groups, and the placement technique did not influence the degree of micro-leakage, both for the qualitative analysis as to the quantitative.

Effect of polymerization techniques on vertical dimension and tooth position in complete dentures.

Due to the changes in the composition and processing of acrylic resins, it seems appropriate to evaluate the influence of polymerization methods about the alteration of occlusal vertical dimension and the horizontal positioning of artificial teeth of total dentures. For this, 64 specimens were made, simulating a maxillary total denture waxed from a standard maxillary denture. The experimental samples were divided into two groups: Group 1 - The resins were submitted to polymerization in a hot water bath, Group 2 - The same resins were submitted to poly-merization by microwave energy. The samples were measured horizontally and vertically before and after the polymerization process. Based on the results, it can be concluded that there was no statistically significant difference between the conventional polymerization method and the polymerization method by microwave, related to the stability of occlusal vertical dimension and horizontal positioning of artificial teeth on the specimens evaluated.

In vitro and In vivo evaluation of resin composites fluorescence.

This study aimed at comparatively evaluate, by visual method, the fluorescence intensity in vitro and in vivo of six resins composed of different classifications and viscosities compared to natural enamel. For the in vitro study, seventy specimens were prepared and for the in vivo study, a restoration was performed on the cervical portion of the buccal face of 6 anterior maxillary teeth, which under ultraviolet light were compared to the dental structure. The specimens and restorations were photographed only under the illumination of an ultraviolet lamp. The photographic record was performed, with standardized parameters for all photographs (ISO 100). After visual analysis of the images by three evaluators calibrated in the in vitro study and by ten evaluators calibrated in the in vivo study, numerical values were assigned to resins without fluorescence (zero), medium fluorescence (1) and high fluorescence (2). The evaluations were submitted to the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn test, which among the limitations of this study and according to the employed methodology, it was found that there was no statistical difference in fluorescence intensity among the composite resins evaluated, since all types of resins achieved fluorescent metamerism with dental enamel.

Effect of Tricalcium Silicate on Direct Pulp Capping: Experimental Study in Rats.

OBJECTIVES: Conduct a histological comparison of the pulp response to different materials, with a focus on the continuity and morphology of the mineralized barrier after direct pulp capping. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and eight maxillary first molars of 54 Wistar rats were subject to direct pulp capping and divided into three groups according to the materials used: calcium hydroxide (CH), mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), and Biodentine. All cavities were sealed, and the animals were euthanized at 7, 14, and 21 days. Descriptive histological evaluation of the inflammation and formation of the mineralized barrier was performed. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Statistical analyses were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, which was complemented by the Dunn test; differences with p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The results showed that MTA and Biodentine elicited less intense inflammatory reactions than CH. With respect to the formation and quality of the dentin barrier formed, differences were observed at 21 days between the analyzed groups; the best results being obtained following treatment with MTA and Biodentine. CONCLUSION: MTA and Biodentine induced formation of a more continuous and uniform mineralized barrier with less intense pulp response than CH.

Impact of dietary acids on the surface roughness and morphology of composite resins.

This in vitro study was performed to evaluate the surface roughness (Ra) and morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of composite resins that had been stored in acidic solutions typical of those present in the diet. Three composite resins (4 Seasons, Z250, and P90) were selected and divided into three groups (n = 7) according to the solutions tested: G1: distilled water; G2, Coca-cola, and G3: orange juice. The Ra test was repeated after immersion periods of 15, 90, and 180 days. The mean Ra values were subjected to LS means analysis and the Tukey-Kramer (P < 0.05). One test specimen of each composite resin was selected for SEM analysis after each period. The Ra data indicated that P90 had the lowest Ra values. 4 Seasons and Z250 had statistically similar roughness values for all the solutions and evaluation periods. With the exception of 180-day immersion in Coca-cola, 4 Seasons showed significantly higher values than Z250. SEM analysis showed that P90 was the composite resin most resistant to the actions of all acid solutions for the periods analyzed. Interaction between components of the solutions and the active components of other dietary items, as well as oral hygiene, may affect the chemical degradation of composite resins.

Bonding Strength of Luting Cement to Zirconia-Based Ceramic Under Different Surface Treatments.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the bonding strength of self-adhesive luting cement to zirconia under different surface treatments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-two zirconia samples were randomly divided into eight experimental groups based on the surface treatment employed (Control: no surface treatment; PMM: wear with diamond bur; JAT: blasting with glass beads; PMA: wear with a medium-roughness milling machine; Primer: primer application on the surface without treatment; PMM +Primer: PMM treatment plus primer application; JAT+Primer: JAT treatment plus primer application; and PMA+Primer: PMA treatment plus primer application). Cement cylinders were built on the ceramic surfaces, and the groups were subdivided according to the storage time employed (i.e., 24 hours or 60 days). After storage, the samples were subjected to microshear testing. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The Kruskal-Wallis test followed by the Dunn test was employed for comparison between the groups (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The PMM group yielded the optimal results and the mean values increased after both storage times following the primer application. The Control, PMA, and JAT groups gave similar results after 24 hours, while the JAT group gave superior results following primer application over this storage time. After 60 days of storage, all groups gave improved results following chemical treatment with a primer. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that mechanical preparation using the diamond bur followed by primer application significantly improved the bond strength between the ceramic and the luting cement.

Influence of Different Composites and Polishing Techniques on Periodontal Tissues near Noncarious Cervical Lesions: A Controlled, Randomized, Blinded Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the long-term effect on gingival tissues near noncarious cervical lesions after restoration with different composites in association with two different polishing techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted on 60 patients as a randomized, split-mouth, single-blind clinical trial and divided into four groups (n = 15) and restored using different composites (Tetric N-Ceram nanohibride or Z350 XT nanoparticles) and polishing materials (Astropol or Sof-Lex). The periodontal parameters analyzed were Silness-Löe plaque index; Silness-Löe gingival index; probing depth, clinical insertion level; and bleeding on probing. Periodontal analysis was performed before scaling and root planing at 30, 60, 120, and 180 days after restoration. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The data submitted to the Friedman's test were employed for comparison between groups (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Statistically significant differences between Z350/Astropol and other groups were observed for visible plaque and probing depth. Gingival index Tetric/Sof-Lex, the time factor did not influence the results. All experiment groups exhibited statistically significant differences in the clinical level of insertion when the follow-up time was considered. Percentage of bleeding on probing, in which there was a difference only with regard to group Tetric/Sof-Lex when the time factor was considered. CONCLUSION: The evaluated composites and polishing techniques did not exhibit differences in performance in the periodontal parameters analyzed at the end of 6 months of evaluation.

Aged Translucent Aesthetic Zirconia: Bond Strength Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates the bond strength of two compositions of aesthetic translucent zirconia (TZ). MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this evaluation, test specimens were prepared from ICE Zirkon TZ and Prettau Anterior zirconia (PAZ) that were stored in distilled water at 37°C for two time periods: T1 (24 h) and T2 (90 days) to simulate aging. Two factors were evaluated for the samples-ceramic and aging time. The samples were subjected to tests of microshear strength and fracture type and were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS: The results were analyzed using the D'Agostino test, analysis of variance, and Tukey's test (p < 0.01). Statistically significant differences were observed for ceramic type and aging time. CONCLUSION: The results showed that PAZ provides significantly superior performance to TZ at the two aging times evaluated.

Effects of low-power laser auriculotherapy on the physical and emotional aspects in patients with temporomandibular disorders: A blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the effects of low-power laser auriculotherapy (LA) on the physical and emotional symptoms of patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), in comparison with occlusal splints (OS). DESIGN: Randomized, blinded, prospective, non-inferiority clinical trial. INTERVENTIONS: The patients received OS (control group) or LA (experimental group). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Following the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines, patients with TMD were evaluated by using axes I and II of the Research Diagnostic Criteria for RDC-TMD. Both intra- and intergroup quantitative variables were analyzed with ANOVA (p < 0.05), while qualitative variables were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis (intergroup evaluations; p < 0.05) or Mann-Whitney tests (intragroup analyses; p < 0.05). RESULTS: OS improved five physical symptoms of TMD (pain in the right temporal muscle, right and left masseter muscles, left joint, and left intraoral region), while LA improved six (jaw functioning; pain in left masseter muscle, right and left joints, and right and left intraoral regions). Similarly, OS improved seven emotional symptoms (degree of depression, degree of non-specific physical symptoms, excluding pain, degree of non-specific physical symptoms including pain, average pain value in the past 6 months, presence of depression, intensity and characteristics of pain, non-specific physical symptoms including pain), while LA improved five (degree of non-specific physical symptoms including pain, presence of depression, intensity and characteristics of pain, non-specific physical symptoms including pain, non-specific physical symptoms excluding pain). CONCLUSION: LA improved the physical and emotional symptoms of TMD, with results similar to OS. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: For the physical and emotional symptoms associated with TMD, LA showed similar outcomes as OS.