Change in the number of occlusal contacts following splint therapy in patients with a temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

The mean number of occlusal contacts before and after occlusal appliance therapy were compared in three temporomandibular disorder groups and one control group. Only patients with a successful treatment outcome were considered in the statistical analysis. Statistically significant changes were seen in the disc displacement with reduction group, which was managed with anterior repositioning splint: the mean number of contacts increased 3 months after weaning off the splint. If the disc is out of position then the number of occlusal contacts appears to be reduced. It would therefore appear to be sound advice not to make permanent and irreversible adjustment to the occlusion in the presence of disc displacement as when the disc is repositioned occlusal contacts will change.