Effectiveness of photobiomodulation and orofacial myofunctional therapy in orofacial pain disorders. A systematic review of randomized control trials.

Orofacial pain can significantly affect physical, psychological, and overall quality of life. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of combining photobiomodulation (PBM) with orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) in managing orofacial pain disorders. An electronic search of randomized controlled trials in electronic databases was performed until March 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on PBM and OMT for the management of orofacial pain were included. Risk of bias across individual studies was performed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for interventions. A total of 10 RCTs were included, out of which 7 RCTs revealed that the combined approach of PBM and OMT had a more pronounced impact on diminishing pain and enhancing functional activity in patients with orofacial disorders. One study reported significant increases in pressure pain threshold for TMJ, masseter, and anterior temporalis muscles at both sides in the post-treatment compared with the pre-treatment in both groups. The risk of bias was low in 7, moderate in 2, and high in 1 study. The efficacy of a combined modality treatment of PBM with OMT for orofacial pain disorder shows promising results. However, further randomized controlled trials with extended follow-up periods standardized PBM and OMT parameters are warranted to obtain firm conclusions.

Increasing Vertical Dimension of Occlusion (VDO): Review.

The need to increase the Vertical Dimension of Occlusion (VDO) to restore lost dental function or optimise specific dental treatments is a common occurrence in daily dental practice. The common belief that the Vertical Dimension at Rest (VDR) is fixed hinders the development of restorations with a VDO that encroaches on or surpasses the interocclusal rest space (IRS), thereby preventing potential tissue damage to the masticatory apparatus. Recent studies have shown that the mandible rest position falls within a range termed as the "comfort zone". The range of this zone may vary from one person to another and within the same person over time due to factors such as age or health status. In this review, we have concluded that a permanent increase in the VDO, once indicated, is a safe procedure for dentulous patients. However, it is important to minimise the extent of the increase to simplify the prosthodontics treatment process. An inter-incisal increase exceeding 5 mm is seldom needed. Moreover, it is important to consider the functional, aesthetic, and biological elements associated with VDO. The biological and functional environment closely related to the VDO had great adaptive capacities, which have for a historically been underestimated. Patient adaptation has been observed in dentate patients, edentulous patients, and even cases involving implant-supported prostheses. Muscle relaxation and changes in muscle length are likely the primary adaptation mechanisms, rather than the restoration of the original VDO through dentoalveolar maturation. Intervention with a fixed restoration is more predictable and results in a higher and more rapid level of adaptation. Finally, the increase should include the entire arch to prevent relapse of the VDO to its previous value, and changes in VDO should be assessed by utilising temporary diagnostic restorations for a period before implementing definitive prostheses, in order to evaluate the adaptive muscle response.

The epidemiological profile of temporomandibular joint disorders in the Tunisian population: A cross-sectional study.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the prevalence, signs, and symptoms of different types of TMD (Temporomandibular joint disorders) disorders in Tunisian patients. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using the clinical records of patients from the Department of Functional Exploration, Pain, and Orofacial Dysfunction of the Dental Clinic of Monastir. Results: TMD is associated with a female predominance, with a peak prevalence among those aged between 20 and 40 years. Pain and a limited range of motion were significantly more prevalent in women (p = 0.019 and p = 0.012, respectively). Clicking sounds were the most frequent joint noises (38.2 %). Crepitus was more prevalent among older adults (33 %). Of the different types of TMD, disk displacement with reduction was the most prevalent (n = 216, 39 %). Sleep bruxism was more prevalent than awake bruxism (20.7 % VS 9.5 %). Due to the heterogeneous TMD signs and symptoms, patients tend to seek medical attention from various specialties (e.g. neurology and otolaryngology). Conclusion: The prevalence of different types of TMD, and the different signs and symptoms varied depending on sociodemographic characteristics, such as sex, age and lifestyle. Diagnosis is challenging and TMD may be confused with other orofacial pain conditions.

Nutrition and chronic musculoskeletal pain: A narrative review and directions for temporomandibular disorder research and management.

BACKGROUND: Recent evidence suggests neuro-immune mechanisms may link dietary patterns to chronic painful conditions (CPC). In the research field of oro-facial pain (OFP), studies focuses primarily on dietary mechanical limitations due to pain and dysfunction. OBJECTIVE: This narrative review aimed to overview the role of nutrition on CPC, with emphasis on temporomandibular disorder (TMD), enlightening OFP researcher on dietary assessment possibilities and providing directions for studies in the field of OFP and nutrition. METHODS: A PubMed database search was performed using the MeSH and non-MeSH descriptors: "temporomandibular joint disorder"; "orofacial pain"; "musculoskeletal pain"; "chronic pain disorders"; "nutrition"; "diet"; "dietary therapy"; "dietary intake" and "inflammation". No time restrictions were applied. Literature reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses and clinical and pre-clinical trials were included. RESULTS: Exogenous oxidants from unhealthy dietary patterns may contribute to peripheral and central pro-inflammatory immune signalling leading to peripheral and central sensitization. Furthermore, diets rich in bioactive compounds are suggested to contribute to pain management of CPC. High dietary intake of ultra-processed foods impacts the quality of the diet and shows adverse health outcomes. In this context, the role of nutrition on TMD remains overlooked. CONCLUSION: Considering diet may influence CPC, allied with the scarcity of studies evaluating the role of nutrition on TMD, well-designed clinical trials based on dietary assessments and measurements capable of evaluating food quality, UPF consumption and nutrient adequacy-added to serum nutrient levels evaluation-are suggested.

Conceptualising TMD symptom burden in youths: Symptom duration, frequency, intensity and interference.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to conceptualise Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptom burden and severity and explored their interrelationships with somatic symptoms and psychological distress. METHODS: Participants were recruited from a local polytechnic. The quintessential five TMD symptoms (5Ts) of the Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs (DC/TMD) were appraised and extended to evaluate the duration, frequency, intensity and interference of discrete TMD symptoms. Global TMD severity (GS) was computed by totaling the points for all TMD symptoms and dimensions. TMD (TS) and somatic symptom (SS) burden were assessed based on the Somatic Symptoms Scale-8, while psychological distress was measured with the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales-21. Statistical analyses were performed using Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn tests and Spearman's correlation (α = .05). RESULT: Of the 366 eligible participants (mean age 19.1 ± 2.3 years), 51.4% were 5Ts-negative and 48.6% were 5Ts-positive. Among the 5Ts-positive individuals, 25.3%/64.0% were 'bothered a little' whereas 4.5%/10.7% were 'bothered a lot' by TMD pain/headache. Correspondingly, 32.6%/12.4%/5.1% were 'bothered a little' while 2.8%/2.8%/1.1% were 'bothered a lot' by TMJ sounds/closed/open locking. TS burden was moderate-to-strongly correlated to aggregate symptom duration, frequency, intensity, interference, GS and SS burden (rs = .50-.88). While TS burden and GS were weakly associated with psychological distress (rs = .18-.36), SS burden was moderately related to depression, anxiety and stress (rs = .47-.53). CONCLUSIONS: TS burden can serve as a proxy for global TMD severity and may be more meaningful than the mere presence of TMD symptoms in clinical and research settings.

Oral habits and temporomandibular joint disorders according to stress levels among military personnel in South Korea: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Military personnel suffer from stress-induced temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). No previous studies have evaluated the oral habits and TMD in military personnel based on their stress levels. OBJECTIVES: To examine the correlation between oral habits and TMD based on stress levels. In addition, we assessed the relationship between stress levels and TMD by military rank as well as the impact of oral habits on TMD. METHOD: This cross-sectional survey included 89 military personnel who visited the Armed Forces Medical Center in Korea with discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort. Oral habits, stress level, TMD and general characteristics of the subjects were investigated. A questionnaire was distributed to the subjects who agreed to the study, and they were asked to respond in a self-written form. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to examine the factors that affect oral habits and TMJ symptoms. RESULTS: Stress scores and oral habits were highest in the 'Private' rank. In contrast, temporomandibular joint symptoms were highest in the 'Corporal' rank. Additionally, the high-risk stress group exhibited higher scores in oral habits and TMD compared to the potential stress group. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between an increase in high-risk stress scores and a rise in oral habits. And individuals with more oral habits are at an increased likelihood of experiencing TMD. CONCLUSION: Our study findings suggest that military personnel with prevent TMD and improve oral habits by addressing stress levels.

Jaws of knowledge: an analysis of temporomandibular joint insights in dental training-a quasi-experiment study.

Objectives: To access the knowledge of undergraduate and postgraduate students of the dental college on basic anatomy, physiology, clinical examination, and pathology of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Materials and Methods: A total of 610 undergraduate and postgraduate students of dental college, were included in this study. The questionnaire was pretested for validation and distributed online through Google forms. Results: A pairwise comparison showed that the percentage of correct answers for interns significantly differed from that of IV Bachelor of Dental Surgery (P=0.050) and postgraduate students (P=0.048) (below average: up to 6 correct answers, good: 7-11 correct answers, excellent: 12 or more correct answers). Conclusion: TMJ diseases are common in daily life but frequently go undiagnosed and untreated due to a lack of clinical expertise. This demonstrates the necessity of providing instructions that give students in-depth knowledge and abilities for TMJ issues in clinical practice.

Effectiveness of conservative approaches on otologic signs and symptoms in patients with temporomandibular disorders and Meniere's disease: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative approaches on otologic signs and symptoms in patients affected by Menière's Disease (MD) and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched to identify studies presenting participants with a diagnosis of MD associated with TMD, conservative approaches as interventions, and modification of the otological signs and symptoms as outcome. RESULTS: Out of 627 articles assessed for eligibility, two studies were included. Both studies showed a significant reduction of Situational Vertigo Questionnaire after treatment, number of vertigo spells, Functional Level Scale, Dizziness Hearing Inventory, and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, after occlusal splint therapy. No significant differences were found in terms of pure-tone audiometry average. CONCLUSION: Findings of this systematic review suggested that conservative approaches might improve vertigo in patients affected by MD and TMD. However, the low number of included studies makes difficult to draw strong conclusions.

A study on volumetric change of mandibular condyles with osteoarthritis using cone-beam computed tomography.

This study aimed to quantitatively assess three-dimensional changes in the mandibular condyle with osteoarthritis using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Pre- and post-treatment CBCT images of temporomandibular joints (TMJs) from 66 patients were used to assess longitudinal changes in condylar volume within individual patients using 3D slicer software. Total volume difference (dV), net increase (dV + , bone deposition), and net decrease (dV- , bone resorption) after treatment were analyzed based on clinical and radiological factors. Condyles with surface erosion at their first visit showed significantly decreased volume after treatment compared to condyles without erosion (p < 0.05). Amounts of bone resorption and deposition were higher in condyles with surface erosion (both p < 0.01). In patients with condylar erosion, the presence of joint pain was associated with a decrease in condylar volume and an increase in net resorption (both p < 0.01). When both joint pain and condylar erosion were present, patients with parafunctional habits showed reduced condylar volume after treatment (p < 0.05). Condylar volume change after treatment was negatively correlated with the duration of pain relief (R = - 0.501, p < 0.05). These results indicate that condylar erosion and TMJ pain could be significant variables affecting TMJ volume changes after treatment. Establishing appropriate treatment strategies is crucial for managing condylar erosion and TMJ pain.

Does lifestyle modification (physical exercise and listening to music) improve symptoms in patients with a temporomandibular disorder? A randomized clinical trial.

Introduction: The aim of the study was to compare pain relief in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients with or without lifestyle modification. Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was performed on patients with TMD, who did not regularly exercise or listen to music. The participants were allocated into two groups. In the treatment group, the participants were instructed to exercise five times or more per week (30 minutes per session) and listen to the music of their choice five times or more per week (15 minutes per session) for 12 weeks. In the control group, the participants had their usual lifestyle without any modifications. The participants were examined for clicking and crepitus in the joint and maximum mouth opening before and after the intervention. The pain severity was also documented based on a visual analog scale. Results: Thirty five patients were studied in each group. Twelve weeks after the intervention, the mean pain severity was 2.70 ± 0.73 in the treatment group and 4.63 ± 0.77 in the control group. The results of data analysis demonstrated a significant difference between the two groups regarding the mean pain severity at 12 weeks after the intervention (P <.001). Conclusions: Lifestyle modification through physical exercise and listening to music may reduce pain in TMD patients.

Effectiveness of Occlusal Splint Therapy in Moderating Temporomandibular Joint Disorders With Joint Displacement: A Retrospective Analysis Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography.

Background Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) represent a prevalent group of conditions impacting the temporomandibular joint. Among the therapeutic interventions, occlusal splint therapy has gained recognition for its potential to address TMD symptoms, particularly in cases involving joint displacement. Objective This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of occlusal splint therapy in cases of moderate TMD with joint displacement, focusing on changes in condylar position, joint morphology, and patient-reported outcomes. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted involving 148 participants who underwent occlusal splint therapy between January 2018 and December 2020. Data were collected through cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging for precise assessments of condylar position and joint morphology. Ethical approval was obtained, and participants provided informed consent. Baseline characteristics, medical history, and TMD severity were recorded. Occlusal splint therapy included individualized fabrication, occlusal analysis, adjustments for optimal fit, and prescribed wear schedules. Follow-up included CBCT scans at specified intervals (three months and six months), with participant-reported outcomes collected. The data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0 (Released 2013; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Paired t-tests or nonparametric equivalents were employed to assess changes in condylar position and joint morphology. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore potential factors influencing treatment outcomes. The significance level was set at p < 0.05 for all statistical tests. Results The entire cohort (n = 148) had a mean age of 32.5 years (± 8.1), with a balanced gender distribution. Changes in condylar position revealed a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.03), with a mean decrease of 0.2 mm posttreatment. Joint morphology changes indicated increased joint space width (p = 0.01), improved disc position (p = 0.02), and nonsignificant alterations in bony structures (p = 0.10). Patient-reported outcomes demonstrated significant improvements in pain levels, jaw functionality, and satisfaction (all p < 0.001). Age and gender subgroup analyses showed consistent improvements in condylar position, joint morphology, and patient-reported outcomes across different groups. Conclusion Occlusal splint therapy demonstrated effectiveness in improving condylar position, joint morphology, and patient-reported outcomes in cases of moderate TMD with joint displacement. The findings underscore the potential of occlusal splint therapy as a viable intervention for managing TMD, providing valuable insights for clinicians and researchers.

Association between oral health-related quality of life and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder among older adults: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the association between oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and self-reported symptoms of TMD. METHODS: Representative samples of older adults (≥60 years) were included (n = 569). Both TMD symptoms and OHRQoL were assessed by Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) and Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14), respectively. Prevalence (those answering "frequently" or "always" in at least one question), severity (total means scores), and extent (number of questions answered as "frequently" or "always") of OHRQoL were estimated. RESULTS: Overall, 33.4% and 9.5% had mild or moderate/severe TMD symptoms. Those with any symptom of TMD had a prevalence ratio (PR) 38% higher for the worst OHRQoL (95% confidence interval [95%CI]:1.04-1.82) compared to those without TMD symptoms. Worst OHRQoL were observed for those with mild (PR:1.35; 95%CI:1.01-1.81) and moderate/severe TMD (PR:1.53; 95%CI:1.04-2.26). Similar results were detected in the severity and extent of OHRQoL. CONCLUSION: Severity TMD was associated with worse ORHQoL.

Optimal Depth of Penetration to Access the Superior Joint Space in Temporomandibular Joint Arthroscopy: A Single Institutional Retrospective Study.

Aim: To identify the optimal depth of penetration required to access the superior joint space (SJS) for arthroscopic procedures of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) among the study population. Materials and Methods: The study included all patients with internal derangement (ID) of the TMJ, managed by TMJ arthroscopy in our institution. The study was conducted with data retrieved from the hospital records over five years (January 2018-April 2022). Demographic factors and depth of penetration (mms) were the variables included in our study. For all the statistical interpretations, p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The study included 66 patients (males, n = 25; females, n = 41) who underwent arthroscopic procedures of the TMJ (right = 29, left = 37). The mean duration between the development of symptoms and the point of intervention (TMJ arthroscopy) in our study was 3.94 months. The mean depth of penetration of the arthroscope as measured from the skin to the point of entry into the SJS was 20.60 ± 1.85 mms in males and 19.56 ± 1.38 mms in females (p value < 0.05). Variables such as age, duration of symptoms, side involved and stage of ID did not have any influence on the optimal depth of penetration required to access the joint space among our study population. Conclusion: The optimal depth of penetration (mean) required to access the SJS was less than 25 mms in our study population.

Skeletal, dentoalveolar and soft tissue changes after stabilization splint treatment for patients with temporomandibular joint disorders.

BACKGROUND: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a grouping of heterogeneous disorders with multifactorial origins. Stabilization splints (SS) have demonstrated an acceptable treatment effect in TMD. The possible changes at the skeletal, dental, and soft tissue levels need to be addressed to evaluate the benefit/risk ratio of this therapeutic procedure. Accordingly, this study aimed to three­dimensionally evaluate skeletal, dentoalveolar and soft tissue changes after SS treatment for patients with TMD. METHODS: This retrospective study included 74 adult patients with myofascial and/or intra-articular disorders (25 males and 49 females), with an average age of 22.88 ± 4.8 years, who underwent SS treatment. Pre- and post-treatment Cone beam computed tomography were analysed using Invivo 6.0.3 software. The primary outcome was the vertical skeletal and dentoalveolar changes, while the secondary outcomes were the anteroposterior skeletal, dentoalveolar and soft tissue changes. Paired t-test and Wilcoxon rank sum test were used for statistical analyses. RESULTS: For the primary outcome; skeletally, there was a significant increase in mandibular plane inclination (difference: 0.82°±1.37), decrease facial height ratio (difference: 0.45%±1.07) and at the dentoalveolar level, the inclination of the functional (FOP-SN, FOP-FH) and bisecting (BOP-SN, BOP-FH) occlusal planes exhibited a significant increase too (difference: 0.38 ± 1.43°, 0.49 ± 1.62°, 0.44 ± 1.29° and 0.41 ± 1.17°, respectively) and also a decrease in the overbite (difference: -0.54 ± 0.83). For the secondary outcomes; there was a significant decrease in mandibular position (SNB) (difference: 1.60 ± 1.36°) and increase in the overjet (difference: 0.93 ± 1.04, p < 0.001) and a significant lower lip retrusion (difference: 0.33 ± 1.01 mm p < 0.01), was observed too. CONCLUSIONS: SS therapy resulted in significant vertical skeletal and dentoalveolar changes that were manifested mainly by facial height ratio, mandibular and occlusal plane changes, and to a lesser extent, significant anteroposterior skeletal, dentoalveolar, and soft tissue changes in the form of mandibular position, increased overjet and a more retrusive lower lip. These changes should be considered during patients' selection prior to initiating SS therapy.

Cannabidiol Intervention for Muscular Tension, Pain, and Sleep Bruxism Intensity-A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial.

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are the most prevalent non-dental pain issues in the maxillofacial region. Despite advancements, diagnosing and managing TMDs continues to pose challenges. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD) formulations, with different concentrations, in patients experiencing sleep bruxism and muscle-related TMDs, with a particular emphasis on their myorelaxant, pain-relieving, and bruxism-reducing properties. Methods: The Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMDs) was utilized as the diagnostic framework. Sixty patients completed the study, which followed a parallel-group, three-arm, randomized, double-blind clinical trial design, with a 1:1:1 allocation ratio across three groups: 1a, 1b, and 2. Groups 1a and 1b received CBD formulations at concentrations of 10% and 5%, respectively, while Group 2 received a placebo formulation. The trial consisted of four main visits, namely screening, baseline, first follow-up after 14 days, and second follow-up after 30 days, during which surface electromyography (sEMG), the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain assessment, and Bruxoff examinations were conducted. Results: The reduction in pain, as measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS), among patients using the 10% CBD formulation was 57.4% (p < 0.05), accompanied by a decrease in sEMG activity by 42.1% (p < 0.05). Conversely, individuals using the 5% CBD formulation experienced a 40.8% (p < 0.05) decrease in pain. Regarding the decrease in the sleep bruxism index, users of the 10% CBD formulation saw the highest reduction of 51% (p < 0.05). These findings underscore the efficacy of the proposed treatment in both experimental groups, with a notable advantage observed in Group 1a. Conversely, the outcomes of the selected variables for the control group did not exhibit significant differences throughout the study. Conclusions: The intraoral use of CBD formulations in patients with TMDs have proven to be a successful treatment for reducing pain, muscle tension, and bruxing activity in individuals with sleep bruxism and muscle-related TMDs. Specifically, a concentration of 10% CBD has demonstrated superior results compared to 5% CBD.

Dental practitioners' knowledge, management practices, and attitudes toward collaboration in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders: a mixed-methods study.

BACKGROUND: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are a variety of conditions that affect different parts of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and can cause orofacial pain and functional impairment. This study aims to investigate dental practitioners' knowledge and management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMDs), particularly their knowledge of the role physical therapy plays in TMD treatment. METHODS: A mixed-methods approach was adopted to provide a comprehensive view of current knowledge, management practices, and attitudes toward collaboration among dental practitioners in treating TMD. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 335 dentists in Karachi using a detailed questionnaire to assess their knowledge of the role of physical therapy in the treatment of TMD. Twenty dentists were chosen for face-to-face, in-depth interviews to explore their experiences and challenges in managing TMDs based on their responses to the administered questionnaire. RESULTS: The cumulative quantitative and qualitative findings of the study revealed a landscape marked by individualized approaches to referral practices and significant gaps in interdisciplinary collaboration. Most practitioners holding a bachelor's degree predominantly used medication (65.2%) and cause-specific treatment (65.3%) for TMD treatment. Thematic analysis of clinical efficacy and practitioner challenges in managing TMD revealed significant issues faced by dental professionals. CONCLUSIONS: The study successfully validated a questionnaire to understand dental practitioners' knowledge regarding physical therapy in TMD treatment. The study identified significant gaps in knowledge and a lack of collaboration between dentists and physiotherapists. The limited referral practices highlighted in the study, along with insights from dentist interviews, emphasize the need for improved interdisciplinary approaches to managing TMDs within dental practice.

Investigating the Association between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Case-Control Study.

Background: This study aims to explore the connection between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) through a case-control investigation. OSA is a sleep-related breathing disorder that affects breathing during sleep, whereas TMD involves pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint. Understanding any potential association between these two conditions could contribute to improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 participants were included in both the OSA group and the control group. Participants with diagnosed OSA constituted the OSA group, whereas individuals without OSA formed the control group. TMD symptoms were assessed using standardized diagnostic criteria. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the prevalence of TMD symptoms between the two groups. Results: In the OSA group, 36 out of 50 participants exhibited TMD symptoms, whereas in the control group, 18 out of 50 participants displayed such symptoms. The calculated P value was found to be 0.023, indicating a statistically significant association between OSA and TMD. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest a notable association between OSA and TMD. Individuals with OSA are more likely to experience TMD symptoms compared to those without OSA. This underscores the importance of considering TMD symptoms in individuals with OSA and vice versa for a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and management.

Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Clinical Outcomes.

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) encompass a range of clinical conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and associated structures. Management approaches for TMDs vary and include both surgical and non-surgical interventions. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, medical records of 150 patients diagnosed with TMDs were reviewed. Patients were categorized into two groups: surgical intervention and non-surgical intervention. The surgical group underwent various surgical procedures, including arthroscopy, arthroplasty, and joint replacement, while the non-surgical group received conservative treatments such as physical therapy, pharmacotherapy, and occlusal splints. Pain levels, TMJ function, quality of life (QoL), and patient satisfaction were assessed at baseline and post-treatment (6 months and 1 year). Results: At the 6-month follow-up, both groups experienced a significant reduction in pain scores (surgical group: 6.3 ± 1.2 to 2.4 ± 0.9, non-surgical group: 6.1 ± 1.1 to 3.2 ± 1.0). TMJ function improved in both groups (surgical group: 2.5 ± 0.8 to 4.8 ± 0.6, non-surgical group: 2.6 ± 0.7 to 4.2 ± 0.9). QoL scores increased (surgical group: 35.2 ± 4.6 to 50.3 ± 5.1, non-surgical group: 35.5 ± 4.2 to 45.7 ± 4.8), and patient satisfaction rates were high (surgical group: 92%, non-surgical group: 87%) at the 1-year follow-up. Conclusion: Both surgical and non-surgical management approaches demonstrated significant improvements in pain relief, TMJ function, QoL, and patient satisfaction for individuals with TMDs.

The influence of COVID-19 on temporo-mandibular disorders.

Temporomandibular disorders are multi-factorial conditions affected by psychological, biomechanical, and neuromuscular factors. Stress and anxiety experienced during the pandemic are capable of influencing and aggravating temporomandibular disorders and orofacial pain. The study aimed to analyze whether the coronavirus infection can directly affect these diseases. All participants were asked to complete the Pain Screener and Patients Health Questionnaire and were assigned to Group I: healthy participants and Group 2: participants with existing complaints. In group II participants filled the questionnaires twice the Temporomandibular Disorders Symptom Questionnaire and Graded Chronic Pain Scale. The first time to self-report the severity of chronic pain before COVID-19 (T1 timeline) and the second time- to self-report the level of pain after COVID-19 infection (T2 timeline). Totally 150 participants were included in the study. In group II the difference between T1 and T2 timeline was significant for the level of average pain (p = 0.022) and highest facial pain (p = 0.043); Difference in level of interference of daily activities (p > 0.05), recreational activities (p > 0.05) and ability to work (p > 0.05) was statistically not significant. Graded chronic pain status was the same "Grade I" for T1 and T2 timeline. There was no statistically significant difference in stress level between group I and II.

Efficacy of rehabilitative therapies on otologic symptoms in patients with temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review of randomised controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: The term temporomandibular disorder (TMD) indicates a set of musculoskeletal conditions involving temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory musculature, and related anatomical structures. Pain is the most common clinical manifestation of TMD, and the auditory system might be involved and affected, through tinnitus, dizziness, otalgia and ear fullness sensation. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this systematic review of randomised controlled trails (RCTs) was to evaluate the efficacy of rehabilitative approaches on otologic symptoms in patients with TMD. METHODS: PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were systematically searched from the inception until 8th October 2023 to identify RCTs presenting participants with a diagnosis of TMD associated with otologic signs and symptoms, rehabilitative approaches as interventions, and modification of the otological symptoms as outcome. RESULTS: Out of 931 papers suitable for title/abstract screening, 627 articles were assessed for eligibility. Five studies were included reporting the efficacy of occlusal splint therapy, low-level laser therapies, and physical therapy in patients diagnosed whit secondary otalgia or tinnitus associated with TMD. No RCTs evaluating other otologic symptoms, ear fullness, dizziness or vertigo were found. CONCLUSIONS: Results of this systematic review suggested that rehabilitative approaches might be effective in improving secondary otalgia and tinnitus in TMD patients. Thus, further RCTs with a higher level of evidence and more representative samples should be conducted to better understand the effects of TMD therapy on otologic complains.