The Effectiveness of Multimodality Treatment Including Stabilization Splint and Low-Level Laser Therapies on Managing Temporomandibular Disorders: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) encompasses various clinical issues affecting the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, and surrounding structures. Common symptoms include pain, joint and muscle tenderness, and limited jaw movement. Diverse treatment options have been utilized to manage TMD. However, evidence of the combined modality treatment approach is scarce. This pilot trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combining stabilization splint therapy (SST) with low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in managing TMD.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: This pilot parallel randomized clinical trial included 30 patients with TMD. Patients were randomly allocated equally into three treatment groups: SST, LLLT, and combined treatment (CT). Outcomes, including pain and functional limitations, were measured at baseline, 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks after the start of each treatment.

RESULTS: CT was significantly more effective in reducing pain in patients with TMD compared to LLLT and SST. Although patients in the LLLT group reported significantly reduced pain, they still had higher pain scores compared to the SST group at certain time points, indicating that LLLT was not as effective as SST. Most functional limitations were improved over time, more consistently within the CT group, but without significant differences between the three groups. Patients were more satisfied with CT compared to LLLT and SST.

CONCLUSIONS: The superior results of the CT group over the SST and LLLT groups were evident in this pilot trial's outcomes. The combined modality treatment approach seems to yield the greatest improvement for TMD patients.