Acupuncture in the treatment of temporomandibular muscle dysfunction

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular dysfunction consists of frequent non-dental pain in the orofacial region of multifactorial origin and interdisciplinary treatment, among them, acupuncture. The treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction acts both in muscle relaxation and pain control, trying to achieve the physical, mental, and emotional balance of the patient, thus reducing anxiety and improving the quality of life. The objective of this study was to evaluate acupuncture as a treatment for temporomandibular dysfunction. METHODS: A total of 34 volunteers screened and selected at the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, diagnosed with muscle dysfunction according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria. They were randomly divided into two equal groups: group 1 treated with occlusal plaque, massage, thermotherapy and selfcare guidelines; and group 2 treated with six acupuncture sessions lasting 30 minutes each. The pain was evaluated by the visual analog scale, and an algometer to assess the muscular tension of the temporal and masseter muscles. The limitation of mouth opening was measured with the use of calipers. The Mann-Whitney test was used for the non-normal distribution (visual analog scale and tension threshold) between the two groups (G1 and G2), and the Friedman test to compare the assessment periods (beginning of the treatment, after six weeks and four months) with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: There was no difference in mouth opening, visual analog scale scores, or muscle tension threshold in relation to the type of treatment used. Both groups improved after six weeks of treatment. There was no statistical difference in the values obtained after six weeks and after four months.

Integrative and complementary practices in dentistry: acupuncture in temporomandibular disorders

“…Acupuncture in the treatment of temporomandibular muscle dysfunction (Boscaine, et al, 2019) To evaluate acupuncture as a treatment for temporomandibular disorders.…”

“…The most common symptoms are non-dental pain in the orofacial area, joint noises and irregular or limiting functions during mandibular movement. TMD therapy is done with therapie to relieve symptoms and improve patients quality of life (Abimorada, et al, 2020;Brasil, 2006;Boscaine, et al, 2019;.…”