Combined Arthrocentesis and Occlusal Splint Therapy for Closed Locks of the TMJ

The goal of this prospective cohort study is to evaluate the effectiveness of combined arthrocentesis and occlusal stabilization splint therapy in patients diagnosed with disc displacement without reduction of temporomandibular joint-induced closed locks. The main questions it aims to answer are:Is there a difference in the treatment response between chronic and acute closed-lock conditions?On which dimensions of pain did the treatment have positive effects? Participants will be preoperatively examined and assigned to one of the two study groups.All participants undergo a single session of TMJ arthrocentesis.Following the arthrocentesis session, all participants will use preoperatively fabricated occlusal splints.Participants will be recalled in one week to evaluate the outcomes. Researchers will compare acute and chronic closed-lock groups to see if there are differences between pain intensities and mouth-opening amounts postoperatively.

Inclusion Criteria:individuals over the age of 18completion of the arthrocentesis treatment without any complications;the presence of preoperative information and postoperative follow-up data;persistent complaints despite conservative methods (behavioral modification, diet restrictions, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy) for at least three months.Exclusion Criteria: The patients;diagnosed with any connective tissue, neurological, dermatological, inflammatory diseases, and TMD other than DDWoR,who underwent TMJ surgeries, arthrocentesis procedures, TMJ ankylosis surgery,previously used occlusal splints,who developed complications in the application of arthrocentesis in the current study (low-volume lavage, extravasation, inability to reach the upper joint space, e.g.),with lack of teeth to affect the fabrication of the occlusal stabilization splint,with a history of radiotherapy of the head and neck.