Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Joint Disorder: Chair-Side Routine Diagnostics (Radiography, Ultrasonography) and Mihalyi Ultrasonography Measured Splint Therapy, A Case Report

Abstract

Aim: An increased prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) has been seen over the last few decades. It is a common issue worldwide considering that a significant part of orofacial pain of non-dental origin is caused by TMD [1]. The present study aims to explain which chair-side examinations can be useful for the diagnostics of the TMD caused pain and thereby an appropriate treatment can be chosen to eliminate the complaints. Methods: In addition to routine clinical examination, radiography and ultrasound imaging provides short examination time, low cost, non-invasive compared with the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By radiograph diagnostics can anatomical deviations and serious bilateral differences be recognized. Sonography provides dynamic visualization of the soft-tissue structures of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This asymmetric splint therapy is aimed to reduce pain and stress on the joint structure and to protect the associated structures, thereby increasing the quality of life. Results: We compare the distances of the joint spaces according the ulrasonography and with the difference of these we modify the splint. After 8 weeks of individual ultrasonography measured splint therapy treatment the patient has experienced a relief of her TMD signs and symptoms. After the treatment the patiens’s symptoms decreased. Conclusion: Using ultrasonography combined with TMJ x-ray can be a good diagnostic tool. Hence, by using the Mihályi Ultrasonography Measured Splint therapy we provide an individual, non-invasive treatment for patients with temporomandibular disorders.