What outcome is expected when anterior repositioning appliances are used in TMD cases?

• A. Repositioning the disc-condyle complex forward to reduce muscle hyperactivity.
• B. Increasing posterior forces.
• C. Eliminating all occlusal contacts.
• D. Causing forward collapse of the mandible.

Answer: (A)

Anterior repositioning appliances aim to reposition the mandible forward to affect the disc–condyle relationship and neuromuscular activity. By guiding the jaw into a forward position, the disc–condyle complex seats more anteriorly, which reduces strain on the retrodiscal tissues and lowers abnormal proprioceptive signaling that drives muscle hyperactivity. The result is decreased masticatory muscle tension and often relief of TMD symptoms such as pain and clenching. This approach focuses on improving joint alignment and reducing muscle overactivity, rather than increasing posterior forces, eliminating all occlusal contacts, or causing a forward collapse of the mandible.