Limited mandibular movements after removal of the mandibular third-molar: use of the anterior bite plane and complementary therapies

Abstract

The traumatic removal of the mandibular third molar may promote post chirurgic consequences such as orofacial pain and limited mandibular movements. The aim of this case report is to describe the use of an anterior bite plane and complementary therapies (low level laser therapy and acupuncture) to treat the muscular dysfunction and the painful symptoms. A 33 year-old male patient who had a severe malocclusion and signs and symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction was submitted to an initial clinical examination: electromyography of the masticatory muscles and IRM of the temporomandibular joint. After treatments, the results showed reduced pain symptoms and an increase of the mandibular movements and adequated electromiographic activities. The authors concluded that the combination therapies may be used as an alternative treatment because it satisfied the functional requirements of the patient and provided an asymptomatic clinical condition.