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Are exercises with or without occlusal splints more effective in the reduction of pain in patients with temporomandibular disorders of myogenic origin? A systematic review

Abstract

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is a term used to describe a set of clinical conditions that may compromise the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory muscles and/or associated structures, considered the most frequent cause of orofacial pain of non-dental origin. In recent years, many forms of physical therapy have been used in the treatment of TMD to reduce pain and improve the range of mandibular movement present in this impairment. Among these resources are kinesiotherapy (exercise), electrothermal and manual therapy, acupuncture, training posture, mobilizations, and biofeedback.

Objectives

To determine if exercises with or without occlusal splints are effective in reducing pain in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) of myogenic origin.

Methodology

This systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD 42019134244). Controlled trials published in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library following PRISMA guidelines up to April 2022 were randomized and included. The population above 18 years, which evaluated the effectiveness of exercise with or without occlusal splints in reducing pain in patients with TMD of myogenic origin, diagnosed through the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders, was also included. There was no restriction on the period of publication. Cochrane risk of bias analysis was performed.

Results

Of the five included articles, all showed a reduction of pain, but without significant differences between the interventions performed. Additionally, studies that evaluated the quality of life and mandibular movements showed a reduction in pain, but no significant differences between therapies.

Conclusion

The analyzed studies showed no difference in the improvement of pain, quality of life, and mandibular movements between the groups that performed only exercises or the associated treatments.

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome; Occlusal splints; Physical therapy

Introduction

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is a term used to describe a set of clinical conditions that may compromise the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory muscles and/or associated structures,11 - Özkan F, Özkan NC, Erkorkmaz Ü. Trigger point injection therapy in the management of myofascial temporomandibular pain. Agri. 2011;23(3):119-25. doi: 10.5505/agri.2011.04796

2 - American Academy of Orofacial Pain. What is orofacial pain? [internet]. Oceanville, NJ: AAOP; 2015 [cited April 16, 205]. Available from: https://aaop.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=508439&module_id=107327
https://aaop.clubexpress.com/content.asp...
-33 - Deregibus A, Ferrillo M, Piancino MG, Domini MC, De Sire A, Castroflorio A. Are occlusal splints effective in reducing myofascial pain in patients with muscle-related temporomandibular disorders? A randomized-controlled trial. Turk J Phys Med Rehabil. 2021;67(1):32-40. doi: 10.5606/tftrd.2021.6615 considered the most frequent cause of orofacial pain of non-dental origin.33 - Deregibus A, Ferrillo M, Piancino MG, Domini MC, De Sire A, Castroflorio A. Are occlusal splints effective in reducing myofascial pain in patients with muscle-related temporomandibular disorders? A randomized-controlled trial. Turk J Phys Med Rehabil. 2021;67(1):32-40. doi: 10.5606/tftrd.2021.6615,44 - Alves GA, Gondim YR, Lima JA, Silva MA, Florêncio DS, Almeida LN, et al. Effects of photobiomodulation associated with orofacial myofactional therapy on temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Codas. 2021;33(6):e20200193. doi: 10.1590/2317-1782/20202020193 The signs and symptoms of TMD are sensitivity to palpation of the masticatory muscles, pain, restrictions of joint movement, noise in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) headache, and tinnitus, among others.44 - Alves GA, Gondim YR, Lima JA, Silva MA, Florêncio DS, Almeida LN, et al. Effects of photobiomodulation associated with orofacial myofactional therapy on temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Codas. 2021;33(6):e20200193. doi: 10.1590/2317-1782/20202020193,66 - Stechman-Neto J, Porporatti AL, Toledo IP, Costa YM, Conti PC, Canto GL, et al. Effect of temporomandibular disorder therapy on otologic signs and symptoms: a systematic review. J Oral Rehabil. 2016;43(6):468-79. doi: 10.1111/joor.12380

7 - Sobral AP, Godoy CL, Fernandes KP, Bussadori SK, Ferrari RA, Horliana AC, et al. Photomodulation in the treatment of chronic pain in patients with temporomandibular disorder: protocol for cost-effectiveness analysis. BMJ Open. 2018;8(5):e018326. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018326
https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018...

8 - Bilici IŞ, Emes Y, Aybar B, Yalçın S. Evaluation of the effects of occlusal splint, trigger point injection and arthrocentesis in the treatment of internal derangement patients with myofascial pain disorders. J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2018;46:916-22. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2018.03.018
-99 - Kütük SG, Özkan Y, Kütük M, Özdaş T. Comparison of the efficacies of dry needling and botox methods in the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome affecting the temporomandibular joint. J Craniofac Surg. 2019;30(5):1556-9. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000005473

While TMD is uncommon in childhood, its prevalence increases in adolescence and young adulthood, affecting people mainly in the age range of 20 to 40 years. Females are the most affected, presenting greater symptom severity and experiencing more difficult recoverying.77 - Sobral AP, Godoy CL, Fernandes KP, Bussadori SK, Ferrari RA, Horliana AC, et al. Photomodulation in the treatment of chronic pain in patients with temporomandibular disorder: protocol for cost-effectiveness analysis. BMJ Open. 2018;8(5):e018326. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018326
https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018...
,88 - Bilici IŞ, Emes Y, Aybar B, Yalçın S. Evaluation of the effects of occlusal splint, trigger point injection and arthrocentesis in the treatment of internal derangement patients with myofascial pain disorders. J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2018;46:916-22. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2018.03.018 Its etiology is multifactorial, involving genetic, individual, and environmental factors. Studies showed that increased stress is associated with the appearance of muscular tension, which affects the functioning of the stomatognathic system and TMJ.88 - Bilici IŞ, Emes Y, Aybar B, Yalçın S. Evaluation of the effects of occlusal splint, trigger point injection and arthrocentesis in the treatment of internal derangement patients with myofascial pain disorders. J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2018;46:916-22. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2018.03.018,1010 - Pihut ME, Margielewicz J, Kijak E, Wiśniewska G. Evaluation of articular disc loading in the temporomandibular joints after prosthetic and pharmacological treatment in model studies. Adv Clin Exp Med. 2017;26:455-60. doi: 10.17219/acem/62216

TMD is a multifactorial pathogenesis, and its treatment must be interdisciplinary, combining a conservative approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, physical therapy, and pharmacology intraoral devices where applicable.1111 - Madani AS, Mirmortazavi A. Comparison of three treatment options for painful temporomandibular joint clicking. J Oral Sci. 2011;53:349-54. doi: 10.2334/josnusd.53.349Occlusal splints (OS), which promotes the relaxation of the masticatory muscles, has been widely used aiming to restore neuromuscular balance. Moreover, it repositions the mandibular condyles and normalizes the proprioception of the periodontal ligament, providing a correct alignment of the temporomandibular joint. Such removable device is made of acrylic resin with polymer and can be used during the day or at night.33 - Deregibus A, Ferrillo M, Piancino MG, Domini MC, De Sire A, Castroflorio A. Are occlusal splints effective in reducing myofascial pain in patients with muscle-related temporomandibular disorders? A randomized-controlled trial. Turk J Phys Med Rehabil. 2021;67(1):32-40. doi: 10.5606/tftrd.2021.6615,55 - Gomes CA, Politti F, Andrade DV, Souza DF, Herpich MC, Dibai-Filho AV, et al. Effects of massage therapy and occlusal splint therapy on mandibular range of motion in individuals with temporomandibular disorder: a randomized clinical trial. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2014;37:164-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2013.12.007,1313 - Ekberg E, Sabet ME, Petersson A, Nilner M. Occlusal appliance therapy in a short-term perspective in patients with temporomandibular disorders correlated to condyle position. Int J Prosthodont. 1998;11:263-8.

14 - Okeson JP. Occlusal appliance therapy: management of temporomandibular disorders and occlusion. St Louis: Mosby; 2003.

15 - Torii K, Chiwata I. Relationship between habitual occlusal position and flat bite plane induced occlusal position in volunteers with and without temporomandibular joint sounds. Cranio. 2005;23:16-21. doi: 10.1179/crn.2005.004
-1616 - Melo RA, Resende CM, Rêgo CR, Bispo AS, Barbosa GA, Almeida EO. Conservative therapies to treat pain and anxiety associated with temporomandibular disorders: a randomized clinical trial. Int Dent J. 2020;70(4):245-53. doi: 10.1111/idj.12546

In recent years, many forms of physical therapy have been used in the treatment of TMD to reduce pain and improve the range of mandibular movement present in this impairment. Although the literature lacks consensus on the best treatment for this disorder, some therapies such as kinesiotherapy (exercise), electrothermal and manual therapy, acupuncture, training posture, mobilizations, and biofeedback can be used in the management of TMD.66 - Stechman-Neto J, Porporatti AL, Toledo IP, Costa YM, Conti PC, Canto GL, et al. Effect of temporomandibular disorder therapy on otologic signs and symptoms: a systematic review. J Oral Rehabil. 2016;43(6):468-79. doi: 10.1111/joor.12380,77 - Sobral AP, Godoy CL, Fernandes KP, Bussadori SK, Ferrari RA, Horliana AC, et al. Photomodulation in the treatment of chronic pain in patients with temporomandibular disorder: protocol for cost-effectiveness analysis. BMJ Open. 2018;8(5):e018326. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018326
https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018...
,1111 - Madani AS, Mirmortazavi A. Comparison of three treatment options for painful temporomandibular joint clicking. J Oral Sci. 2011;53:349-54. doi: 10.2334/josnusd.53.349,1717 - Al-Moraissi EA, Conti PC, Alyahya A, Alkebsi K, Elsharkawy A, Christidis N. The hierarchy of different treatments for myogenous temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2022;26(4):519-33. doi: 10.1007/s10006-021-01009-y

Orofacial exercises have been one of the main interventions in the management of TMD. Aiming to promote the proper functioning of the cranio-cervico-mandibular region, strength, mobility, coordination, the relaxation of the jaw muscles, the increase of range of motion of the TMJ, proprioception, and muscle relaxation, this intervention brings positive effects on pain. The exercises must be part of an individualized program, in addition to the need for verbal and written instructions.1818 - Idáñez-Robles AM, Obrero-Gaitán E, Lomas-Vega R, Osuna-Pérez MC, Cortés-Pérez I, Zagalaz-Anula N. Exercise therapy improves pain and mouth opening in temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil. 2022:2692155221133523. doi: 10.1177/02692155221133523,1919 - Dickerson SM, Weaver JM, Boyson AN, Thacker JA, Junak AA, Ritzline PD, et al. The effectiveness of exercise therapy for temporomandibular dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil. 2017;31(8):1039-48. doi: 10.1177/0269215516672275,2020 - Geneen LJ, Moore RA, Clarke C, Martin D, Colvin LA, Smith BH. Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;4(4):CD011279. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3

This study aimed to perform a systematic review of the literature to verify if exercises with or without the OS are effective in the reduction of pain in patients with TMD of myogenic origin. The hypothesis of the study is the physical therapy exercises associated with the occlusal splint are more effective in the treatment of pain in myofascial TMD.

Methodology

Protocol and registration

This systematic review was conducted based on studies published in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library that followed PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes) guidelines2121 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000097and were registered in PROSPERO under protocol No. CRD 42019134244.

Eligibility criteria

The problem, intervention/indicator, comparison, and outcome of interest (PICO) question guiding this study was the following: “Are exercises with or without the OS effective in reducing pain in patients with TMD of myogenic origin?” Here, “P” was “patients with TMD of myogenic origin”; “I” was “physical therapy exercises”; “C” was “use of the OS + physical therapy exercises”; and “O” was “pain assessment (primary) and quality of life and mandibular movements (secondary).”

Inclusion criteria

Randomized clinical trials published up to April 2022 with a population above 18 years, which evaluated the effect of exercise with or without occlusal splints (made of acrylic) in the reduction of pain in patients with TMD of myogenic origin, diagnosed using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD), were included. There was no restriction on the period of publication.

Exclusion criteria

Studies that used other tools for TMD diagnosis, assessed TMD unrelated to muscle origin, or included patients with diseases that could affect masticatory muscles or the TMJ, were excluded.

Search strategy

Two authors (JFOLB and JMLG) independently performed the electronic search in the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS. The keywords and MeSH descriptors were combined with Boolean operators for each database, as in Figure 1. A manual search was performed in the references of the articles included and in journals in the field of pain, rehabilitation, and temporomandibular dysfunction: “Head & Face Medicine,” “The Journal of Pain,” and “Journal of Oral Rehabilitation.”

Figure 1
PRISMA flow diagram of study selection

Study selection

The selection process was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, two independent evaluators (JFOLB and JMLG) read the titles and summaries of the studies identified in the databases searched. Studies that did not meet the inclusion criteria were discarded. In the second phase, the same researchers applied the eligibility criteria to the full text of the articles. During the searches, disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer (MVH).

Inter-examiner evaluation (kappa test) was performed to verify the level of agreement between the authors during the search and selection of the articles.

Data collection

One author (JFOLB) collected the relevant data from the articles, which were then verified by two other authors (JMLG and MVH). The qualitative data collected included author/year/country, study design, follow-up, age group, intervention (types of exercises, habit counseling, and occlusal splints), assessment instrument for pain outcome, results (pain, quality of life, and mandibular movements), conclusion, and effect.

Risk of bias

The bias risk analysis was performed by two independent authors (BCEV and SLDM) using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. For each manuscript, the items’ allocation confidentiality, the possibility of randomization, blinding, and patient loss were examined. Finally, the studies were categorized according to the level of risk of bias as “low,” “medium,” or “high”.

Results

Selection of studies

The database search yielded a total of 1.111 studies in the databases as follows: 374 Pubmed/MEDLINE, 166 Cochrane Library, and 571 SCOPUS. After the exclusion of duplicated studies (368), 743 studies were evaluated through the reading of titles and abstracts. Among the 31 articles remaining for full-text evaluation, after applying the eligibility criteria, 27 were excluded for several reasons. Manually searching, we found one article that met the inclusion criteria. Finally, five articles were part of the data extraction and qualitative synthesis. Figure 2 shows the process of identification, inclusion, and exclusion of studies.

Figure 2
Search strategy for each database

The inter-examiner test (kappa) showed “moderate” to “almost perfect” agreement according to the criteria (K=0.88) for each database.

Characteristics of the studies

Figure 3 summarizes the articles, highlighting the authors, year of publication, country of origin, age group, sample, follow-up, intervention, assessment instrument for pain outcome, results, and conclusion. As for the temporal distribution, studies were conducted in 2012,2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
2013,2121 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.10000972015,2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
2017,2727 - Carvalho AP, Silva V, Grande AJ. Avaliação do risco de viés de ensaios clínicos randomizados pela ferramenta da colaboração Cochrane. Diagn Tratamento. 2013;18:38-44. and 2018.2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394Regarding geographic distribution, one study was conducted in Brazil, while the others were conducted in Finland,2020 - Geneen LJ, Moore RA, Clarke C, Martin D, Colvin LA, Smith BH. Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;4(4):CD011279. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3,2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394 the Netherlands,2727 - Carvalho AP, Silva V, Grande AJ. Avaliação do risco de viés de ensaios clínicos randomizados pela ferramenta da colaboração Cochrane. Diagn Tratamento. 2013;18:38-44. and India.2121 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000097The age range of the study populations was broad, covering both young and adults.2020 - Geneen LJ, Moore RA, Clarke C, Martin D, Colvin LA, Smith BH. Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;4(4):CD011279. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3,2121 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000097,2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
,2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394,2727 - Carvalho AP, Silva V, Grande AJ. Avaliação do risco de viés de ensaios clínicos randomizados pela ferramenta da colaboração Cochrane. Diagn Tratamento. 2013;18:38-44.

Figure 3
Characteristics of included studies

The follow-up period varied among the studies: one month,2020 - Geneen LJ, Moore RA, Clarke C, Martin D, Colvin LA, Smith BH. Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;4(4):CD011279. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3 five months,2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
six months,2121 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000097and one year.2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394 In one study,2727 - Carvalho AP, Silva V, Grande AJ. Avaliação do risco de viés de ensaios clínicos randomizados pela ferramenta da colaboração Cochrane. Diagn Tratamento. 2013;18:38-44.the follow-up time, dependent on the rate of symptom improvement, differed for each patient. Regarding the treatments performed, four studies associated exercise with occlusal splints,2020 - Geneen LJ, Moore RA, Clarke C, Martin D, Colvin LA, Smith BH. Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;4(4):CD011279. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3

21 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000097
-2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
,2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394and only one study2727 - Carvalho AP, Silva V, Grande AJ. Avaliação do risco de viés de ensaios clínicos randomizados pela ferramenta da colaboração Cochrane. Diagn Tratamento. 2013;18:38-44.used separate therapies and compared the groups. Additionally, all studies2020 - Geneen LJ, Moore RA, Clarke C, Martin D, Colvin LA, Smith BH. Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;4(4):CD011279. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3

21 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000097
-2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
,2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394included advice on parafunctional habits, diet, and pain management.

In our review, we found that there was a reduction in pain between the initial assessment and after the intervention, but no significant difference regarding whether the studies used the occlusal splints with exercises2020 - Geneen LJ, Moore RA, Clarke C, Martin D, Colvin LA, Smith BH. Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;4(4):CD011279. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3

21 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000097
-2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
,2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394or isolated therapies.2727 - Carvalho AP, Silva V, Grande AJ. Avaliação do risco de viés de ensaios clínicos randomizados pela ferramenta da colaboração Cochrane. Diagn Tratamento. 2013;18:38-44.Only one study2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394evaluated the quality of life related to oral health (QLROH), observing an improvement in the dimensions of physical capacity and eating discomfort, regardless of the treatment used. Niemelä, et al.2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
(2012) and Katyayan, et al.2121 - Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. PLoS Med. 2009;6(7):e1000097. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000097 (2013) evaluated mandibular movements and reported that the splints treatment was not more effective than exercises for increased mandibular mobility.

Risk of bias

All included studies were classified as low risk of bias according to the Cochrane risk of bias tool,2727 - Carvalho AP, Silva V, Grande AJ. Avaliação do risco de viés de ensaios clínicos randomizados pela ferramenta da colaboração Cochrane. Diagn Tratamento. 2013;18:38-44.although none of them met all the criteria for methodological quality since some information was unclear. Figure 4 shows a graph on the risk of bias and Figure 5 shows a more detailed analysis of each study.

Figure 4
Risk of bias assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias tool

Figure 5
Risk of bias assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias tool

Discussion

This study aimed to verify whether exercises alone or associated with occlusal splints are effective in reducing pain in patients with TMD of myogenic origin. Therefore, RDC/TMD was used as the inclusion criterion, since it is considered the gold standard for diagnosis of TMJ dysfunction and is the protocol used over the diagnosis.2727 - Carvalho AP, Silva V, Grande AJ. Avaliação do risco de viés de ensaios clínicos randomizados pela ferramenta da colaboração Cochrane. Diagn Tratamento. 2013;18:38-44.,2828 - Dworkin SF, Huggins KH, Wilson L, Mancl L, Turner J, Massoth D, et al. A randomized clinical trial using research diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders-axis II to target clinic cases for a tailored self-care TMD treatment program. J Orofac Pain. 2002;16:48-63. The OS used in studies2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...

23 - Katyayan PG, Katyayan MK, Shah RJ, Patel G. Efficacy of appliance therapy on temporomandibular disorder related facial pain and mandibular mobility: a randomized controlled study. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2013;14(3):251-61. doi: 10.1007/s13191-013-0320-4

24 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394

25 - Van Grootel RJ, Buchner R, Wismeijer D, van der Glas HW. Towards an optimal therapy strategy for myogenous TMD, physiotherapy compared with occlusal splint therapy in an RCT with therapy-and-patient-specific treatment durations. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2017;18:76. doi: 10.1186/s12891-017-1404-9
-2626 - Kokkola O, Suominen AL, Qvintus V, Myllykangas R, Lahti S, Tolvanen M, et al. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on the oral health-related quality of life-a randomised controlled one-year follow-up trial. J Oral Rehabil. 2018;45:355-62. doi: 10.1111/joor.12622 was made from heat-cured acrylic. According to Conti, et al.1212 - Conti PC, Alencar EN, Mota Corrêa AS, Lauris JR, Porporatti AL, Costa YM. Behavioural changes and occlusal splints are effective in the management of masticatory myofascial pain: a short-term evaluation. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:754-60. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02327.x (2012) the occlusal splints promotes central, peripheral, and behavioral changes, reduces muscle activity, and improves occlusal stability. Melo, et al.1616 - Melo RA, Resende CM, Rêgo CR, Bispo AS, Barbosa GA, Almeida EO. Conservative therapies to treat pain and anxiety associated with temporomandibular disorders: a randomized clinical trial. Int Dent J. 2020;70(4):245-53. doi: 10.1111/idj.12546 (2020) also states that OS restores neuromuscular balance by promoting balanced condylar contact of the TMJ.

Regarding the protocol of splints use, patients were instructed to use it overnight, except for one study that advised that the splints should be used as long as possible or for at least 10-12 hours at night.2929 - Ferreira MC, Porto de Toledo I, Dutra KL, Stefani FM, Porporatti AL, Flores-Mir C, et al. Association between chewing dysfunctions and temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review. J Oral Rehabil. 2018;45:819-35. doi: 10.1111/joor.12681Deregibus, et al.33 - Deregibus A, Ferrillo M, Piancino MG, Domini MC, De Sire A, Castroflorio A. Are occlusal splints effective in reducing myofascial pain in patients with muscle-related temporomandibular disorders? A randomized-controlled trial. Turk J Phys Med Rehabil. 2021;67(1):32-40. doi: 10.5606/tftrd.2021.6615 (2021), in their randomized clinical trial (RCT), guided participants to use it at night, for at least 8 hours, while Melo, et al.1616 - Melo RA, Resende CM, Rêgo CR, Bispo AS, Barbosa GA, Almeida EO. Conservative therapies to treat pain and anxiety associated with temporomandibular disorders: a randomized clinical trial. Int Dent J. 2020;70(4):245-53. doi: 10.1111/idj.12546 (2020) stated that OS can be used in the morning or at night, depending on the patient’s clinical condition, which must be analyzed by a specialist. We should note that the Finnish guidelines recommend that splints should be used at night because it is uncomfortable to use during the day owing to work activities, school, and feeding.3030 - Carlsson GE, Magnusson T. Treatment modalities. In: Bywaters LC, ed. Management of temporomandibular disorders in the general dental practice. Chicago: Quintessence; 1999. p. 93-103.However, the literature lacks consensus about the optimal period and time of occlusal splints usage.

Regarding the exercises used, Kokkola, et al.2626 - Kokkola O, Suominen AL, Qvintus V, Myllykangas R, Lahti S, Tolvanen M, et al. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on the oral health-related quality of life-a randomised controlled one-year follow-up trial. J Oral Rehabil. 2018;45:355-62. doi: 10.1111/joor.12622 (2018), Niemelä, et al.2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
(2012) and Katyayan, et al.2323 - Katyayan PG, Katyayan MK, Shah RJ, Patel G. Efficacy of appliance therapy on temporomandibular disorder related facial pain and mandibular mobility: a randomized controlled study. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2013;14(3):251-61. doi: 10.1007/s13191-013-0320-4 (2013) implemented the protocol proposed by Carlsson and Magnusson3030 - Carlsson GE, Magnusson T. Treatment modalities. In: Bywaters LC, ed. Management of temporomandibular disorders in the general dental practice. Chicago: Quintessence; 1999. p. 93-103. (1999). This program consists of mouth opening, lateralization, and protrusion, actively and with maximum maintenance of the positions for a few seconds; it is, essentially, exercises that incorporate resistance from the patient’s fingers. These exercises are repeated from seven to ten times and performed two to three times per day. Costa, et al.2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394 (2015) used stretching and elongation exercises three to five times per second. Already Van Grootel, et al.2525 - Van Grootel RJ, Buchner R, Wismeijer D, van der Glas HW. Towards an optimal therapy strategy for myogenous TMD, physiotherapy compared with occlusal splint therapy in an RCT with therapy-and-patient-specific treatment durations. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2017;18:76. doi: 10.1186/s12891-017-1404-9 (2017) performed the Jacobson method, which promoted the relaxation of the mandible muscles in addition to stretching, mandibular movement, and self-massage.

Fernández-de-las-Peñas and Piekartz3131 - Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Von Piekartz H. Clinical reasoning for the examination and physical therapy treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD): a narrative literature review. J Clin Med. 2020;9(11):3686. doi: 10.3390/jcm9113686 (2020) state that mandibular exercises should be individualized aiming to improve muscle coordination, increase the range of motion, and relax strained muscles. There is no standardization of the exercises used to treat TMD, as to patient compliance with therapy, appropriate dosage, and exercise frequency. Despite this, it is possible to compare studies because of commonalities regarding relaxation, active movements, and stretching.

A common point in all studies2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...

23 - Katyayan PG, Katyayan MK, Shah RJ, Patel G. Efficacy of appliance therapy on temporomandibular disorder related facial pain and mandibular mobility: a randomized controlled study. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2013;14(3):251-61. doi: 10.1007/s13191-013-0320-4

24 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394

25 - Van Grootel RJ, Buchner R, Wismeijer D, van der Glas HW. Towards an optimal therapy strategy for myogenous TMD, physiotherapy compared with occlusal splint therapy in an RCT with therapy-and-patient-specific treatment durations. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2017;18:76. doi: 10.1186/s12891-017-1404-9
-2626 - Kokkola O, Suominen AL, Qvintus V, Myllykangas R, Lahti S, Tolvanen M, et al. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on the oral health-related quality of life-a randomised controlled one-year follow-up trial. J Oral Rehabil. 2018;45:355-62. doi: 10.1111/joor.12622was the use of guidelines, advice, and instructions on the etiology and prognosis of the disease, diet, and parafunctional habits to avoid. Costa, et al.2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394 (2015) stressed the importance of sleep hygiene and the application of hot cushions on painful muscles. They also stated that counseling and behavioral changes were effective in relieving headaches attributed to TMD because the use of the occlusal splints did not offer any additional therapeutic effect. This reinforces the need for a more comprehensive protocol, involving professional intervention as well as counseling strategies and behavioral changes since these approaches are reported to be a valuable tool for the management of myofascial pain.1212 - Conti PC, Alencar EN, Mota Corrêa AS, Lauris JR, Porporatti AL, Costa YM. Behavioural changes and occlusal splints are effective in the management of masticatory myofascial pain: a short-term evaluation. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:754-60. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02327.x Studies observed that patients with masticatory muscular pain have alterations in respiratory patterns, depression, and sleep disorders. Therefore, interventions that address bio-behavioral strategies, alone or in combination with other therapies, could help alleviate pain.3131 - Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Von Piekartz H. Clinical reasoning for the examination and physical therapy treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD): a narrative literature review. J Clin Med. 2020;9(11):3686. doi: 10.3390/jcm9113686,3232 - Carlson CR, Reid KI, Curran SL, Studts J, Okeson JP, Falace S, et al. Psychological and physiological parameters of masticatory muscle pain. Pain. 1998;76:297-307. doi: 10.1016/S0304-3959(98)00063-3

The studies combining OS and exercises, making a comparison with only exercises,2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...

23 - Katyayan PG, Katyayan MK, Shah RJ, Patel G. Efficacy of appliance therapy on temporomandibular disorder related facial pain and mandibular mobility: a randomized controlled study. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2013;14(3):251-61. doi: 10.1007/s13191-013-0320-4
-2424 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394,2626 - Kokkola O, Suominen AL, Qvintus V, Myllykangas R, Lahti S, Tolvanen M, et al. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on the oral health-related quality of life-a randomised controlled one-year follow-up trial. J Oral Rehabil. 2018;45:355-62. doi: 10.1111/joor.12622 as well as the study comparing individual therapies, that is, only the OS compared with exercises,2525 - Van Grootel RJ, Buchner R, Wismeijer D, van der Glas HW. Towards an optimal therapy strategy for myogenous TMD, physiotherapy compared with occlusal splint therapy in an RCT with therapy-and-patient-specific treatment durations. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2017;18:76. doi: 10.1186/s12891-017-1404-9 concluded that the treatments were effective in improving pain. However, no significant difference was observed between the treatment group and control groups.2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...

23 - Katyayan PG, Katyayan MK, Shah RJ, Patel G. Efficacy of appliance therapy on temporomandibular disorder related facial pain and mandibular mobility: a randomized controlled study. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2013;14(3):251-61. doi: 10.1007/s13191-013-0320-4

24 - Costa YM, Porporatti AL, Stuginski-Barbosa J, Bonjardim LR, Speciali JG, Conti PC. Headache attributed to masticatory myofascial pain: clinical features and management outcomes. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:323-30. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1394

25 - Van Grootel RJ, Buchner R, Wismeijer D, van der Glas HW. Towards an optimal therapy strategy for myogenous TMD, physiotherapy compared with occlusal splint therapy in an RCT with therapy-and-patient-specific treatment durations. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2017;18:76. doi: 10.1186/s12891-017-1404-9
-2626 - Kokkola O, Suominen AL, Qvintus V, Myllykangas R, Lahti S, Tolvanen M, et al. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on the oral health-related quality of life-a randomised controlled one-year follow-up trial. J Oral Rehabil. 2018;45:355-62. doi: 10.1111/joor.12622We should highlight that OS and exercise therapy have similar success rates,1818 - Idáñez-Robles AM, Obrero-Gaitán E, Lomas-Vega R, Osuna-Pérez MC, Cortés-Pérez I, Zagalaz-Anula N. Exercise therapy improves pain and mouth opening in temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil. 2022:2692155221133523. doi: 10.1177/02692155221133523 with their efficacy being confirmed through follow-ups.2828 - Dworkin SF, Huggins KH, Wilson L, Mancl L, Turner J, Massoth D, et al. A randomized clinical trial using research diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders-axis II to target clinic cases for a tailored self-care TMD treatment program. J Orofac Pain. 2002;16:48-63. Therefore, according to Van Grootel, et al.2525 - Van Grootel RJ, Buchner R, Wismeijer D, van der Glas HW. Towards an optimal therapy strategy for myogenous TMD, physiotherapy compared with occlusal splint therapy in an RCT with therapy-and-patient-specific treatment durations. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2017;18:76. doi: 10.1186/s12891-017-1404-9 (2017) the key to the choice of treatment is patient compliance and preference.

The impact of pain on the quality of life in patients with TMD was assessed only by Kokkola, et al.2626 - Kokkola O, Suominen AL, Qvintus V, Myllykangas R, Lahti S, Tolvanen M, et al. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on the oral health-related quality of life-a randomised controlled one-year follow-up trial. J Oral Rehabil. 2018;45:355-62. doi: 10.1111/joor.12622 (2018), who found that although the patients experienced an improvement in physical pain and discomfort when eating, no difference was observed between the interventions (OS and exercises vs exercises). However, TMD-related pain has a greater impact on QLROH than dental problems, and it is also known that patients with TMD suffer more, especially regarding the physical pain of TMD.3333 - Papagianni CE, van der Meulen MJ, Naeije M, Lobbezoo F. Oral health-related quality of life in patients with tooth wear. J Oral Rehabil. 2013;40:185-90. doi: 10.1111/joor.12025,3434 - Almoznino G, Zini A, Zakuto A, Sharav Y, Haviv Y, Hadad A, et al. Oral health-related quality of life in patients with temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2015;29:231-41. doi: 10.11607/ofph.1413

Mandibular movements were evaluated by Niemelä, et al.2222 - Niemelä K, Korpela M, Raustia A, Ylöstalo P, Sipilä K. Efficacy of stabilization splint treatment on temporomandibular disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39:799-804. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012.02335.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2012...
(2012) who observed improvement after one month of treatment. However, there was no difference between the interventions performed (exercises + orientation vs OS + exercises + orientation). The improvement in movements was achieved in both groups and cannot be attributed only to the OS. Therefore, the improvement was more likely achieved because of the information received and the positive effects of both treatment methods used. The author also reported an adverse effect—increased pain upon palpation—in the splints group.

Katyayan, et al.2323 - Katyayan PG, Katyayan MK, Shah RJ, Patel G. Efficacy of appliance therapy on temporomandibular disorder related facial pain and mandibular mobility: a randomized controlled study. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2013;14(3):251-61. doi: 10.1007/s13191-013-0320-4 (2013) also observed an improvement in mandibular movements between the beginning and after six months of treatment, but no significant difference between the groups. The author also emphasizes the need for further studies with sufficient sample sizes to assess the effectiveness of treatment with an occlusal splints on symptoms in TMD of myogenic origin.

Some methodological limitations in the included studies are that the samples were patients who intentionally sought treatment or who had been referred from orofacial pain centers. Additionally, the studies did not use the same treatment protocol for both exercise and splints use. Because of the heterogeneous nature of the data, which made quantitative synthesis difficult, performing a meta-analysis was impossible.

Conclusion

The analyzed studies showed no difference in the improvement of pain, quality of life, and mandibular movements between the groups that performed only exercises or the associated treatments. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies analyzed, further research is needed.

Acknowledgements

This study was conducted with the support of the Coordination of Higher Education and Graduate Training – Brasil (CAPES) – Financial Code 001.

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  • Data availability statement
    All data generated and analyzed during this study are included in this published article.

Publication Dates

  • Publication in this collection
    23 Jan 2023
  • Date of issue
    2022

History

  • Received
    2 Aug 2022
  • Reviewed
    8 Nov 2022
  • Accepted
    30 Nov 2022
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