Effectiveness of T-Scan Technology in Identifying Occlusal Interferences and its Role in the Management of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Occlusion is a significant issue that affects the masticatory system’s health. Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) have long been linked to occlusal interferences. Identification and management of such disorders using a T-scan-guided approach have been gaining popularity; however, the effectiveness is still not established. Aim: To evaluate the effect of T-scan on the reduction of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores of pain and improvement in the symptoms associated with TMD. The benefits of reducing Disocclusion Time (DT) were also evaluated. Materials and Methods: The Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) database via PubMed and Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE) were searched for studies reporting the use of T-scan in Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders to check the DT and patient-related outcomes. The search was performed from January 1991 to November 2022. A total of 10 studies were included in the systematic review, which includes clinical studies, observational studies, and interventional studies. Data extraction was performed, and risk of bias assessment was done using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) for non randomised studies, and the Cochrane tool was utilised for randomised clinical trials. A qualitative analysis of all the studies was carried out. Results: The T-scan-guided occlusal correction or equilibration procedures led to improvement in subjective symptoms and VAS in TMD patients. Reduction in DT positively affected muscle activity, causing relief of chronic symptoms. Conclusion: As per the findings of the present review, T-scan technology can be successfully used in the precise identification and diagnosis of occlusal discrepancies in patients suffering from myofascial symptoms.

Keywords

• myofascial pain management
• occlusal equilibration in temporomandibular disorders
• occlusion