Soft Occlusal Splint Therapy In A Patient With Temporomandibular Joint Clicking And Generalised Attrition: A Case Report

Abstract

Background

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder can be associated with significant morbidity, leading to severe pain and functional limitation. Symptomatic cases presenting with painful clicking or locking should be treated as early as possible using conservative approaches such as manual manipulation, anti-inflammatory medications, and oral appliances.

Purpose

The purpose of this case report was to evaluate the effectiveness of stabilisation splint therapy in the non-surgical management of disc displacement with reduction associated with sleep bruxism and to document radiographic changes following treatment.

Case Presentation

A 36-year-old female presented with a chief complaint of clicking sounds in both temporomandibular joints during mouth opening. Clinical examination revealed normal mouth opening without pain or limitation. Generalised attrition and prominent wear facets were observed on all mandibular teeth, suggesting parafunctional activity. Based on the clinical findings, a diagnosis of disc displacement with reduction associated with sleep bruxism was established. Pre-treatment digital radiographic evaluation demonstrated anterior disc displacement with reduction in both the right and left temporomandibular joints. The patient was treated with a stabilisation splint for four months. Her symptoms gradually subsided.

Conclusion

This case report supports the use of occlusal splint therapy as an effective initial non-surgical treatment modality for TMJ Dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint. Clinical symptom resolution and radiographic improvement suggest that stabilization splints can play a valuable role in the conservative management of disc displacement with reduction.