Diagnostics: MRI Findings
Before treatment, an MRI of the temporomandibular joint was performed.
The examination revealed:
- displacement of the articular discs on both sides;
- on the right side- complete disc dislocation, with no possibility of spontaneous reduction.
Such changes require functional treatment aimed at restoring the correct position of the joint structures and unloading the muscle–joint complex.
Splint Therapy Stage
Following diagnostics, an individualized splint was fabricated.
Its objectives were to:
- guide the mandible into a physiologically correct position;
- reduce load on the joints;
- stabilize movement of the condylar head;
- create conditions for possible disc reduction.
During the splint-wearing period, the patient reported:
- disappearance of joint clicking;
- resolution of headaches;
- relaxation of the mandibular and facial muscles.
These changes indicated that the selected mandibular position was correct and that the TMJ structures were being adequately unloaded.
Follow-Up MRI: Confirmation of Results
After a period of splint therapy, a repeat MRI was performed.
The imaging showed:
- complete reduction of the articular discs on both sides;
- restoration of correct anatomical relationships between the joint components.
Follow-up MRI provides objective confirmation of treatment effectiveness and allows safe progression to further stages — bite correction or aesthetic rehabilitation.
Changes Achieved During Treatment
As a result of the three-stage approach (diagnostics → splint therapy → MRI follow-up), the following outcomes were achieved:
- adaptation of the mandible to a physiologically correct position;
- normalization of the vertical dimension of occlusion;
- relaxation of facial and oral muscles;
- improvement of facial profile and overall facial harmony;
- elimination of headaches;
- restoration of correct disc position within the TMJ.
These changes are the result of functional stabilization and accurate selection of the therapeutic mandibular position.
Why a Stepwise Approach Is Essential in TMJ Dysfunction Treatment
The sequential protocol “MRI → splint therapy → follow-up MRI” makes it possible to:
- objectively assess the initial condition of the joints;
- determine the correct therapeutic jaw position;
- evaluate treatment effectiveness not only subjectively, but also through imaging;
- safely proceed to orthodontic or aesthetic treatment stages.
This approach ensures predictable outcomes and reduces the risk of symptom recurrence.
Why Patients Choose TMJ Treatment at DentalDate
At DentalDate, TMJ treatment is based not on assumptions, but on objective data – MRI, condylography, and controlled splint therapy. This approach allows clinicians to clearly understand joint mechanics and to verify results not only through patient feedback, but also through before-and-after imaging.
We use a protocol that enables us to:
- identify the true cause of joint clicking and pain;
- confirm treatment effectiveness with follow-up MRI;
- safely prepare patients for orthodontic or aesthetic treatment;
- manage TMJ disorders in a way that ensures long-term stability.
For patients, this means a clear, transparent, and predictable pathway – from diagnostics to a stable therapeutic jaw position.
