MANDIBULAR REPOSITIONING SPLINT: A FUNCTIONAL AND ESTHETIC CONSIDERATION FOR DISC DISPLACEMENT WITH REDUCTION AND MYOFASCIAL PAIN MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Disc displacement with reduction represent the early stage of disc derangement disorders. Disc derangement
disorders result from elongation of capsular and discal ligaments coupled with thinning of the articular disc.
These changes commonly result from either macro or micro trauma. Mandibular repositioning splint can be used
to treat disc displacement with reduction. This clinical report aims to explain management of disc displacement
with reduction and myofacial pain with mandibular repositioning splint. 23-years-old female patient was
complaining in mouth limited opening and pain around cheeks, ears, neck and shoulders since six months ago,
especially after wake up in the morning but returned to normal a few hours later. On clinical examinations there
was a clicking sound while mouth opening and closing, also pain during palpation on facial muscles, neck and
shoulders. Patient was suggested to use mandibular repositioning splint 24 hours a day for three to six months.
Mandibular repositioning splint is effective if the patient uses it continuously. Functional and esthetic concerns
are important if the mandibular repositioning splint is to be used during the day. The advantages of the
mandibular repositioning splint are least affected of speech function, more esthetic and the patient easier to move
the mandible to posterior. Mandibular repositioning splint is the best choice for disc displacement and myofascial
pain treatment because it may be more acceptable from a functional and esthetic standpoint.
Keywords : Disc displacement with reduction, Myofascial pain, Mandibular repositioning splin