NCT07410091

Multimodal Physiotherapy Versus Occlusal Splint in Adults With Temporomandibular Disorders

Effect Of A 6-week Multimodal Physiotherapy Programme Versus Occlusal Splint Therapy On Pain, Mouth Opening And Quality Of Life In Adults With Muscular Temporomandibular Disorders: A Controlled Clinical Trial

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 24 (actual)
• Sponsor: Egas Moniz - Cooperativa de Ensino Superior, CRL · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 50 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of two therapeutic approaches commonly used in the management of muscular temporomandibular disorders (TMD): a multimodal physiotherapy program combining manual therapy and therapeutic exercises, and the use of an occlusal splint during sleep. This study seeks to determine whether these interventions help reduce pain, improve mouth opening, and enhance oral health-related quality of life in adults with muscular TMD. Participants will be assigned to one of two groups: one group will receive a six-week multimodal physiotherapy program, while the other will use an occlusal splint nightly for the same period. Assessments will be conducted at baseline and 48 hours after completion of the intervention. The findings of this study may contribute to improving clinical management and treatment strategies for individuals with TMD.

Conditions

• Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Multimodal Physiotherapy	Participants received multimodal physiotherapy consisting of one 30-minute session per week for six weeks, delivered by a trained physiotherapist. The intervention included manual therapy techniques (compression and transverse and longitudinal massage of the masseter, compression of the medial pterygoid, longitudinal massage of the temporalis, and bilateral stretching of the masseter and medial pterygoid muscles) combined with therapeutic exercises focused on strengthening (resisted mouth opening, closing, and lateral movements) and motor coordination.
DEVICE	Occlusal Splint	Participants received thermoplastic occlusal splint therapy (3 mm thickness) and were instructed to wear the device nightly during sleep for six consecutive weeks. Splint fitting and occlusal adjustments were performed by a qualified dentist to ensure proper adaptation and comfort.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-02-23
• Primary completion: 2024-09-16
• Completion: 2024-09-16
• First posted: 2026-02-13
• Last updated: 2026-03-03

Locations

3 sites across 1 country: Portugal