Surgical vs. Non‑Surgical Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Clinical Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) encompass a range of clinical conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and associated structures. Management approaches for TMDs vary and include both surgical and non‑surgical interventions. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, medical records of 150 patients diagnosed with TMDs were reviewed. Patients were categorized into two groups: surgical intervention and non‑surgical intervention. The surgical group underwent various surgical procedures, including arthroscopy, arthroplasty, and joint replacement, while the non‑surgical group received conservative treatments such as physical therapy, pharmacotherapy, and occlusal splints. Pain levels, TMJ function, quality of life (QoL), and patient satisfaction were assessed at baseline and post‑treatment (6 months and 1 year). Results: At the 6‑month follow‑up, both groups experienced a significant reduction in pain scores (surgical group: 6.3 ± 1.2 to 2.4 ± 0.9, non‑surgical group: 6.1 ± 1.1 to 3.2 ± 1.0). TMJ function improved in both groups (surgical group: 2.5 ± 0.8 to 4.8 ± 0.6, non‑surgical group: 2.6 ± 0.7 to 4.2 ± 0.9). QoL scores increased (surgical group: 35.2 ± 4.6 to 50.3 ± 5.1, non‑surgical group: 35.5 ± 4.2 to 45.7 ± 4.8), and patient satisfaction rates were high (surgical group: 92%, non‑surgical group: 87%) at the 1‑year follow‑up. Conclusion: Both surgical and non‑surgical management approaches demonstrated significant improvements in pain relief, TMJ function, QoL, and patient satisfaction for individuals with TMDs.