Effectiveness of conservative approaches on otologic signs and symptoms in patients with temporomandibular disorders and Meniere’s disease: A systematic review

Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative approaches on otologic signs and symptoms in patients affected by Menière's Disease (MD) and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched to identify studies presenting participants with a diagnosis of MD associated with TMD, conservative approaches as interventions, and modification of the otological signs and symptoms as outcome. Results: Out of 627 articles assessed for eligibility, two studies were included. Both studies showed a significant reduction of Situational Vertigo Questionnaire after treatment, number of vertigo spells, Functional Level Scale, Dizziness Hearing Inventory, and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, after occlusal splint therapy. No significant differences were found in terms of pure-tone audiometry average. Conclusion: Findings of this systematic review suggested that conservative approaches might improve vertigo in patients affected by MD and TMD. However, the low number of included studies makes difficult to draw strong conclusions.