Exploring the Relationship Between Occlusion and Degenerative TMJ Disorders: A Comparative Clinical Study
- Conditions
- Degenerative Joint DiseaseTMD
- Registration Number
- NCT06948682
- Lead Sponsor
- King Khalid University
- Brief Summary
The study "Exploring the Relationship Between Occlusion and Degenerative TMJ Disorders: A Comparative Clinical Study" investigated the efficacy of occlusal therapy in managing degenerative temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Conducted over 6 months with 150 patients, it compared three groups: occlusal therapy (Group 1), conventional treatment (Group 2), and routine care (Group 3). Group 1 showed significant improvements, including a 65% pain reduction, 51% better jaw function, slower joint degeneration, 64% less muscle tension, 24% improved jaw mobility, and enhanced quality of life, outperforming the other groups. The findings support occlusal therapy's role in multidisciplinary TMJ management, though long-term studies are needed.
- Detailed Description
Not available
Recruitment & Eligibility
- Status
- COMPLETED
- Sex
- All
- Target Recruitment
- 150
Adults aged 18 to 65 years
Clinical diagnosis of moderate to severe degenerative temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, confirmed by:
Radiographic evidence (e.g., cartilage thinning, joint space narrowing)
Symptoms such as jaw pain, restricted jaw movement, or muscle tension
Ability to provide written informed consent
No recent trauma to the TMJ or oral structures
Diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune joint conditions
Serious cardiovascular, neurological, or systemic disorders
Pregnant women
Patients with contraindications for orthodontic procedures or occlusal splint use
History of TMJ surgery
Uncontrolled bruxism or other parafunctional habits that require alternative treatment strategies
Study & Design
- Study Type
- INTERVENTIONAL
- Study Design
- PARALLEL
- Primary Outcome Measures
Name Time Method Change in TMJ Pain Intensity (VAS Score) Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months Assessment of temporomandibular joint pain using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), scored from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain). This outcome evaluates the effectiveness of occlusal treatment in reducing TMJ-related pain.
Change in Jaw Function (Jaw Function Limitation Scale - JFLS) Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months Measurement of jaw functionality using the JFLS, a patient-reported scale ranging from 0 (no limitation) to 20 (severe limitation). This assesses improvements in jaw movement and function following different interventions.
Radiographic Changes in TMJ Structure Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months Evaluation of TMJ degeneration using radiographic imaging (X-ray and MRI), including assessment of joint space narrowing, cartilage thinning, and subchondral bone changes. Quantitative imaging will compare structural changes across groups.
- Secondary Outcome Measures
Name Time Method
Trial Locations
- Locations (1)
King Khalid University
🇸🇦Abha, Saudi Arabia