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Occlusal splints are a useful adjunct in the management of temporomandibular disorders, bruxism and the protection of the natural or restored dentition. Along with a video to accompany the text, this article gives an overview of the role and fabrication of occlusal splints. Indications as well as the clinical and laboratory protocol required for the construction of a full-coverage, hard acrylic splint are covered, along with the current role of CAD/CAM. A video accompanies this article.
CPD/Clinical Relevance: The ability to provide a full-coverage, hard acrylic splint will be useful in selected cases.
Article
An occlusal splint (synonymously referred to as an occlusal device) has been defined as, ‘any removable artificial occlusal surface affecting the relationship of the mandible to the maxillae used for diagnosis or therapy.’1 A plethora of occlusal splints has been reported in the literature, with variations in design and indications. While the evidence-base to support the application of occlusal splints for the treatment of certain conditions may be lacking, they have been used to facilitate diagnostic evaluations prior to embarking on complex restorative treatment plans often involving changes to the occlusal scheme, for the preventive management of tooth wear, the protection of dental restorations/restorative materials, to help with the taking of occlusal records and for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD).1
Occlusal splints may be categorized by their:
This article provides an overview of the more commonly prescribed occlusal splints, with focus on the stabilization splint, and includes the indications, design and fabrication techniques of this device.
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