TMD patients treatment with maxillary stabilization appliances

Introduction: Occlusal splints are treatment approach in establishing neuromuscular functional balance
between different parts of the stomatognathic system in patients with temporomandibular disorders
(TMDs).
Materials and Methods: To show the effectiveness of the Maxillary stabilization appliances, also known as
Michigan splint in management of various temporomandibular disorders.
Through this case report we present the occlusal splint use, as intermediate treatment, by repositioning
the mandible in the central relation, as a physiologic treatment position, before starting the orthodontic
therapy with fixed orthodontic appliances. Patient had presence of various temporomandibular disorders
(TMD) symptoms, such as crepitations and subluxation of TMJ, headaches, myofascial pain, pain in the
TMJ region and pain radiating to the neck and shoulders. After the complete clinical examination and
digital T-Scan computerized occlusal analysis, we made the Michigan splint as a specific type of occlusal
splint designed to reposition the jaw to a more optimal alignment, which works by gradually adjusting or
stabilizing the position of the lower jaw to the most comfortable position to alleviate strain on the
temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles, thereby reducing symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking
and limited movement.
Results: Occlusal splint therapy is useful for the diagnosis and management of various masticatory
system disorders and considerably reduce TMD symptoms.