Management of Osteoarthritic Condylar Degeneration via Occlusal Analysis, Stabilization, and Restoration: A Report of Three Cases

Complex cases often require interdisciplinary specialist care when multiple structures in the stomatognathic system have developed significant problems. Treatment planning uses detailed problem and solution analysis and coordination of multiple clinicians for a predictable, practical result consistent with the patient's priorities. The foundation of this process is knowing exactly what each team member does in their practice. Restorative dentists can uniquely contribute to the diagnostic phase with quantified occlusal analysis and may abbreviate or replace specialist procedures with current restorative technique. This article presents 3 cases of active osteoarthritic condylar volume loss that amplified inter-arch occlusal problems, prompting the specialists on the interdisciplinary team to refer to the restorative dentist for evaluation and treatment. The rationale and technique of quantified occlusal analysis with mounted diagnostic casts, confirmation of mandibular stability and pain resolution by an occlusal splint with a digitally verified occlusion and definitive care with occlusal adjustment prior to restoration are presented.