Comparative study of two treatment methods for internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint.

Orthopedic mandibular repositioning and flat plane occlusal splint therapy were compared in the treatment of 20 patients with internal TMJ derangement with reduction. The following conclusions can be drawn. Mandibular repositioning treatment produces significant subjective and objective improvement in the dysfunction of patients with internal joint derangements with reduction. Flat plane occlusal splint treatment produces no significant change in the dysfunction level of patients with internal joint derangements with reduction. Mandibular repositioning treatment may eliminate the reciprocal click of internal joint derangement with reduction. To realize improvement in dysfunction of internal joint derangement, it appears that the reciprocal click must be eliminated. Mandibular repositioning treatment produces a significant improvement in muscle pain associated with internal joint derangement.