Objectives: This study sought to evaluate the effect of simultaneous application of arthrocentesis and occlusal splint.
Materials and methods: A retrospective study of 43 patients (3 males, 40 females) whose symptoms had improved was conducted at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dong-A University Hospital between 2008 and 2010. Subjects were divided into three groups: Group A (17 patients with arthrocentesis and occlusal splints simultaneously applied), Group B (13 patients whose symptoms did not improve with occlusal splints, undergoing arthrocentesis after occlusal splint use for 8 weeks), and Group C (13 patients that only used occlusal splints). We compared these groups in maximum comfortable opening (MCO) and the visual analogue scale of pain and noise. Follow-up was performed at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months.
Results: The improvement of symptoms was noted in all three groups, but Group A had a quicker improvement than the other groups, in terms of pain reduction and MCO increases.
Conclusion: The simultaneous application of arthrocentesis and occlusal splints can reduce patient discomfort more quickly.
Keywords: Arthrocentesis; Occlusal splint; Temporomandibular joint disorders.