Articular Disc-Assisted Reduction Appliance For The Management Of TMD

Provide an effective and straightforward optional treatment plan for patients with anterior disc displacement-type TMD. We analyzed the changes in the anatomical structure of TMJ anterior disc displacement-type TMD. Based on the principles of spatial accommodation and passive traction reduction, the CT data of the maxillofacial region were input into the Mimics software to analyze the relationship between the mandibular condyle and the surrounding bone tissue. Then, the Mimics data were imported into the ProPlan software, where the mandibular condyle was adjusted to shift backward and downward while incorporating a counterclockwise rotational movement. Finally, the 3D printing technology was employed to fabricate articular disc-assisted reduction occlusal appliance. After being worn in the mouth, the articular disc was pulled and repositioned, leading to relaxation of the posterior region tissues of the articular disc, stretching of the lateral pterygoid muscle, and simultaneously creating space for the reduction of the articular disc. After wearing the appliance, the structure of the occlusal appliance was adjusted according to the evaluation of MRI images until full reduction of the articular disc was achieved. The occlusal appliance was then provided to the patient for daily intermittent use. After 117 patients wore the appliance for either 3 months or 6 months, symptoms such as clicking and pain subsided, and MRI images confirmed the complete repositioning of the articular disc. The clinical therapeutic effect of this articular disc-assisted reduction occlusal appliance is definitive, and it merits further promotion and application.