Most TMDs are self-limiting and do not get worse. Simple treatment, involving self-care practices, rehabilitation aimed at eliminating muscle spasms, and restoring correct coordination, is all that is required. NSAIDs should be used on a short-term, regular basis and not on an as-needed basis.
A study examined the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections in various forms of osteoarthritis and concluded that its effectiveness is questionable and is not superior to intra-articular injections of corticosteroids.
Physiologic basis of the pain relief provided by splints is not well understood. Factors such as alteration of occlusal relationships, redistribution of occlusal forces of bite, and alteration of structural relationship and forces in the TMJ seem to play some role. Autorepositional splints, also known as muscle splints, are used most frequently. Some sort of pain relief is seen in as many as 70%-90% of patients using splints. In acute cases, the splint may be worn 24 hours a day for several months; if the condition permits, the splint may be worn only at night.
For more on the treatment of TMD, read here.
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Any views expressed above are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of WebMD or Medscape.
Cite this: Amy Kao. Fast Five Quiz: Test Yourself on Temporomandibular Disorder - Medscape - Mar 01, 2017.
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