Thermographic evaluation of occlusal splint and low level laser therapy in myofascial pain syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome (MAS) is one of the most common disorders in TMJ diseases (TMD). MAS therapy is usually performed using conservative methods, especially occlusal stabilization splints. This study was performed to compare clinically and thermographically the occlusal splint and low level laser treatments in patients with myofascial pain. Twenty patients were included in the study, and these patients were divided into two groups. One group received a stabilization splint while the other received low level laser therapy. Clinically, pre- and post-treatment pain levels, muscle sensitivities and thermographic changes were recorded, and the obtained data were statistically evaluated. In the study, there were significant thermographic changes and a significant decrease in muscle sensitivity and pain seen in both groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of palpation sensitivity and pain level. The thermographic heat values in some regions of the masseter muscles were lower in the DDLT group and a statistically significant difference was found between the two groups. In conclusion, both treatment modalities were effective in the treatment of patients with myofascial pain syndrome, but when thermographic data were considered, it was concluded that DDLT was a more advantageous method.