[Three orthodontic cases with temporomandibular joint sounds].

Abstract

Three orthodontically treated cases with sounds of the temporomandibular joint are presented. Case 1: Eight months after [formula: see text] extraction, bilateral TMJ sounds were noticed. The patient had a history of pre-orthodontic TMJ sounds and locking. A disc recapturing splint was therefore set on the upper arch, then changed into a stabilization splint for 5 months. The TMJ sounds faded away and the active treatment was completed. Case 2: The patient had [formula: see text] missing teeth, severe deep bite, upper and lower spaced arches. She also had mild facial deformity and bilateral TMJ sounds. TMJ arthroscopy showed right side "Anterior disk displacement without reduction" and left side "Anterior disk displacement with reduction". Maxillary spaces were closed following standard splint therapy. Right side TMJ sound diminished considerably while left side sound faded away completely. Finally, prosthodontic treatment was performed. Case 3: The patient had mandibular right side shifting, upper and lower crowding and a right side TMJ sound. Initially, maxillary lateral expansion was performed using a Quad-helix appliance. Simultaneously a positioner-type splint was used on the lower arch for avoiding any occlusal interference. TMJ sound faded away and a standard [formula: see text] extraction treatment was completed for crowding correction and better occlusion.