The effects of treatment timing on the management of patients with multiple facial fractures and on the self-perception of TMD recovery

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the effects of time on the orofacial functions and on the self-perception of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) recovery in a population of patients with multiple facial fractures. Methods Orofacial functions and self-perception of TMD recovery was verified in patients with midface and/or lower face fractures. Patients were divided according to the time between fracture reduction and the clinical assessments: 0–1 month (Group 1), 1–3 months (Group 2), and 15 >3 months (Group 3). Results Patients in Group 1 presented a greater compromise of swallowing and mastication when compared to patients with older fractures (p = 0.015), whereas patients in Group 3 presented a poorer TMD recovery (TMJ pain: p = 0.010 and tinnitus: p = 0.004). Conclusion Delays in functional treatments involving the myofunctional orofacial system have a negative impact on the recovery of essential orofacial functions and on TMD symptoms..