DAY 2 — CASE 3 (TMJ): What is the BEST diagnostic/management approach for this TMD patient?

Correct answer: C. Occlusal splint (stabilization appliance)

• A. Orthognathic surgery is reserved for severe skeletal discrepancies — not appropriate as initial TMD management.
• B. Trigger point injection is used for myofascial pain disorder with specific trigger points — not the best first-line approach for disc displacement with deviation.
• C. OCCLUSAL SPLINT (stabilization appliance/night guard) is the BEST first-line treatment for TMD. It reduces joint loading, prevents bruxism, and allows muscle relaxation. It is reversible, non-invasive, and evidence-based as the primary conservative management for TMD.
• D. Arthrocentesis (lavage of the TMJ) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for persistent disc displacement that doesn't respond to conservative management — not first-line.