Collaboration between dentists and otorhinolaryngologists in treating temporomandibular joint syndromes

Abstract

Introduction: The mandibular articulation is a complex system involving muscles, tendons, ligaments and innervation and it can cause pain or discomfort that should not be overlooked. Pathological changes in the joint can reduce the patient’s quality of life by affecting his ability to eat and speak.
Objectives: The aim of this study is to show that the collaboration between dentists and otorhinolaryngologists is the basis for good treatment of temporomandibular joint malfunctions.
Materials and methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed in patients with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint pain syndrome from 2018 to 2021 year. A total of 23 patients with clinical features consistent with TMS were enrolled. Patients were referred to dentists by otorhinolaryngologists.
Results: The age range of patients was 23–67 years, mean of 45.30 ± 18.9 years. We found that 12 of them had bruxism, 6 abrasion due to stress and squeezing and 5 were with tooth damage. Almost 87% of them (20 of 23) had pain in the joint and masticatory muscles, 6 – clicking sounds, 3 – pain when opening mouth and chewing. Mouth opening was normal in 20 patients and 3 had impaired movement of the jaws. All patients were treated conservatively – soft foods, antiinflammatory drugs, 13,1% – occlusal spints, 21.7% – selective filing of the contact interferences, 65,2% – height adjustment with nonremovable structures. Along with the height adjustment we applied botulinum toxin injections and for pain – NSAIDs.
Conclusion: Good collaboration is crucial for the diagnosis, quality and competent treatment of temporomandibular disorders, especially in patients with overlapping signs and symptoms.