Prognostic features of value in the management of temporomandibular joint pain-dysfunction syndrome by occlusal splint therapy.

Fifty consecutive patients diagnosed as suffering from a temporomandibular joint pain-dysfunction syndrome that required occlusal splint therapy were studied. Particular attention was given to observable features that could be analyzed during resolution as indicated by using successive visual analogue scales for pain assessment. By photographing occlusal registrations before and after each splint adjustment visit it was shown that the stabilization of occlusal patterns as resolution progressed gave a good indication of the success of treatment in most patients. In patients in which stabilization of patterns occurred but pain continued there was an indication of a complicating psychosocial disorder.