Do monolithic zirconia restorations affect TMD signs and symptoms? Data from a prospective clinical trial after one year of observation.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of monolithic zirconia-based occlusal surfaces on signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) after short-term clinical service. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients were supplied with multi-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDP) featuring monolithic zirconia-based occlusal surfaces. Prior to prosthetic treatment and 1 year after insertion anamnestic facial pain, pain with palpation of muscles/joints and joint sounds were examined. RESULTS: Of the 50 patients, 43 were re-examined after 1 year. Perceived facial pain was not present, pain with palpation occurred in 2 patients, and TMJ sounds decreased; differences were not statistically significant (P ≥ .058). CONCLUSION: Single tooth-supported multiunit FDPs featuring monolithic zirconia-based occlusal surfaces did not affect TMD-associated signs and symptoms.

Development of an instructional movie illustrating a standardized clinical examination on patients with TMD symptoms.

Objectives: The aim of this project was to develop an instructional video that demonstrates a standardized clinical examination on patients with suspected temporomandibular disorders (TMD). After viewing the video, the learner should be knowledgeable about the examination steps and application of the examination techniques. Methods: The instructional video was created by two dentists who are experienced in assessing patients with suspected TMD. Additionally, both examiners were calibrated according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD). The instructional video was divided into chapters. Various camera angles, key points, image enlargements, and replays were used to better depict essential aspects of the assessment. Background noise was reduced to a minimum. Results: The instructional video was modified and completed in two phases: the first by an experienced dentist and the second by a dentist specialized in TMD. The final video includes nine chapters and is 26.5 minutes in length (https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.k8r7qc1). Conclusion: Divided into chapters, this German instructional video shows an optimally timed, standardized clinical assessment of patients with suspected TMD.