Temporomandibular disc displacement with reduction treated with anterior repositioning splint: a 2-year clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) follow-up

Abstract

Clicking may appear in the initial, middle, or final phase of mandibular opening. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the most appropriate diagnostic imaging for diagnosing disc position. With anterior repositioning splint (ARS), disc recapture is achieved through a change in the position of the condyle to encourage adaptation of the retrodiscal tissues. Three patients reported pain and sounds during movement and clicking in the final phases; also, the MRI confirmed anteriorized disc position and the treatments consisted of an ARS. The post-treatment examination confirmed a normal opening without deviations and deflections. After 2 years, the conditions were stable, and the MRI showed thickening of the retrodiscal tissues, including extra fibrous tissue, resulting in a pseudodisc. Treatment using ARS can stimulate tissue fibrosis and the formation of a pseudodisc. MRI is the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment planning of disc displacement cases.