Ensaio clínico do efeito do laser em baixa intensidade sobre a dor, movimentos mandibulares e seu reflexo psicossocial em idosos com DTM

Abstract

This study investigate the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in elderly patients and evaluate the effect of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on pain, jaw movements and its effects on psychosocial. A 38 elderly patients, 9 (23.68%) males and 29 (76.31%) women with a mean age of 70.13 (± 7.23) were evaluated. As an evaluation tool, we used the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders of the RDC / TMD - Axis I and II. Analysis of Axis I showed that 24 (63.15%) presented TMD. Of these, 79.16% had articular involvement (group III) or combined with other diagnoses. The diagnosis of Axis II showed that 34.22% showed chronic pain and depression, 31.58% non-specific physical symptoms including pain and 34.22% non-specific physical symptoms other than pain. Of these, 10 individuals with TMD associated with pain were selected and were treated with LLLT twice a week, totaling eight sessions. At the beginning and the end of the treatment protocol, patients were evaluated for pain, jaw movements and the psychosocial reflection. The results showed a higher prevalence of TMD with combined diagnostic and psychosocial changes that were prevalent in the population and increase in elderly patients with TMD. LLLT promoted the reduction of pain, increased movement of maximum opening and decreased muscle pain in right and left lateral excursion. It is concluded that TMD in the elderly is common and that LLLT promotes improvement in pain and jaw movements generating positive effects on the pscicossocial behavior of patients with TMD