Dr. Andrew Blumenfeld, MD International Headache Congress (IHC) Abstract 2010
Document Library and Dental/Medical
Migraine is a prevalent and disabling condition, for which treatment options remain limited. Many patients do not wish to take oral preventive medications. The NTI splint is FDA approved for the treatment of migraine. However, the use of this option amongst headache experts is limited in part due to fear of potential dental, rather than systemic, adverse events.
Objectives
This study used a web based questionnaire to collect data from dental providers on the methods of use and observed adverse events of the NTI splint in their practices.
Methods
A web-based questionnaire was e mailed to dental providers in the United States. Respondents were identified from dental laboratory and distributor records of documented NTI splint providers. Questions on the methods of use of the NTI splint and outcomes were asked. Analysis of the data is expressed as a percentage of total respondents.
Results
Of 6,312 panelists contacted, 567(9%) responded. Respondents were largely male (506/567: 89%) and had on average prescribed 160 NTI splints each. The total number of NTI splints provided by this group of dental professionals was 90,720. 512/567 responded to the question regarding changes in occlusion secondary to NTI splint use. The number of patients reported to develop a clinical observation of abnormality of occlusion with an anterior open bite as a result of NTI splint use was reported at: 1.6% of 78,711 cases. Only 0.3% of patients reported aspirating the device; however 0% reported documented aspirations on X ray. The dental providers rated the NTI splint as an effective treatment for headache in the majority (over 90%) of the patients they treated.
Conclusions
Headache can be effectively and safely treated with the NTI splint in dental practices.
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