Management of temporomandibular joint arthritis-related orofacial symptoms in juvenile idiopathic arthritis by the use of a stabilization splint.

OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammation in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) may interfere with optimal joint and muscle function. Orofacial symptoms are common findings in relation to TMJ arthritis. Previous research on management of TMJ arthritis-related orofacial symptoms in patients with JIA has focused on pharmacological treatment modalities without involving physical pain management strategies. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in orofacial pain and TMJ function after stabilization splint treatment.

METHOD: Twenty-eight consecutive patients with JIA and arthritis-related orofacial symptoms (mean age 15.5 years, range 8.2-25 years) were included in this prospective observational study. All patients received stabilization splint treatment. A comparable group of 110 healthy children served as controls for the assessments of TMJ mobility.

RESULTS: After splint treatment for 8 weeks, a significant reduction in orofacial pain frequency and intensity was reported, and significant improvement in TMJ function was observed. However, TMJ mobility at follow-up remained significantly reduced when compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS: The stabilization splint is a safe, reversible, low-cost treatment, and familiar to most dental practitioners. Based on our findings, we propose the implementation of stabilization splint therapy for the treatment of JIA patients with TMJ arthritis-related symptoms.