The use of noninvasive neuromodulation in the treatment of chronic pain in individuals with temporomandibular dysfunction

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Faced with mechanisms of maladaptive neuroplasticity that can generate a memorization of pain sensation in individuals with temporomandibular dysfunction, the transcranial direct current stimulation emerges as a possible treatment strategy for chronic pain. However, further studies are needed to demonstrate the efficacy of this therapeutic modality and its long-term effect. Thus, the present study aims to discuss the use of transcranial direct current stimulation in the treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction in individuals with chronic pain. CONTENTS: The present review encompasses 40 articles, published between the years 2000 and 2016. The temporomandibular dysfunction is a disease characterized by a set of signs and symptoms that may include joint noise, pain in the muscles of mastication, limitation of mandibular movements, facial pain, joint pain and/or dental wear. Pain appears as a very present and striking symptom, with a tendency to chronicity, a condition that is difficult to treat and often associated with psychological factors such as anxiety and depression. Studies using transcranial direct current stimulation in patients with chronic pain symptomatology have been showing good results through neuromodulation of neuronal excitability. It is worth noting that it corresponds to a non-invasive technique, low cost, easy and quick to apply, besides having minimal adverse effects. CONCLUSION: The transcranial direct current stimulation has shown promising results in the treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction pain, with the possibility of becoming a complementary technique to the existing treatments, and thus, providing a professional assistance of better quality and resolution to the patient with this disorder.