Arthrocentesis and intermaxillary traction appliance in a patient with unilateral posterior open bite caused by temporomandibular osteoarthritis : A Case Report

Abstract

Osteoarthritis in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) affects surrounding soft and hard tissues including cartilage, sub-chondral bone, and synovial membrane, causing TMJ remodeling and articular cartilage abrasion. When degenerative bone changes worsen in some patients with osteoarthritis, facial skeletal remodeling occur such as chin deviation, malocclusion. In patients with TMJ osteoarthritis, it is important to expand the joint space and decompress it. When pathological changes in the joint are observed, minimally invasive treatment such as intra-articular injection and arthrocentesis can be performed. An intermaxillary traction appliance can be applied for a short period of time to patients with TMJ osteoarthritis with oc-clusal changes. The purpose of this report is to review the case using arthrocentesis and intermaxillary traction appliance along with conservative treatment in a patient with unilateral posterior open bite caused by temporomandibular disorder(osteoarthritis), and to report the importance of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular disorder.