Effectiveness Of Non-Pharmacological Treatments In Decreasing Tourette Syndrome Symptoms

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness of non-pharmacological treatments in suppressing Tourette's Syndrome symptoms.

METHODS

The PubMed database was accessed through Augusta University Greenblatt Library. The database was used to search for articles about how occlusal splints suppress Tourette's symptoms. Articles filters included random control trials, peer-reviewed, and clinical trials, that were published within the last five years. Key terms that were utilized were "Tourette's Syndrome/Therapy," "Occlusal Splint," "Deep Brain Stimulation," "Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation,” and "Tics". Articles excluded were meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and literature reviews.

RESULTS

Participants receiving the proper individualized therapeutic height for their occlusal splint demonstrated a consistent decrease in their Tourette symptoms based on the mean clinical global impressionsimprovement scale (CGI-S) rating when compared to participants not receiving a proper individualized therapeutic height for their occlusal splint. An occlusal splint is viable in providing immediate tic symptom improvement. The use of an occlusal splint is effective, non-invasive, tolerable, and grants minimal risk when compared to deep brain stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to other non-pharmacological options such as deep brain stimulation or transcranial magnetic stimulation, the occlusal splint is a nonsurgical procedure that not only requires less time to be completed but offers fewer adverse effects for the patient, with promising results.

IMPLICATIONS

Pharmacological treatment is known as the “Golden Standard” of care when treating Tourette syndrome symptoms. Understanding how nonpharmacological treatments may affect those with Tourette syndrome, offers additional treatment options. The usage of non-pharmacological treatments such as an occlusal splint has the potential to benefit individuals with Tourette syndrome, further advancing the oral-systemic health connection.