Hard occlusal splints made by vaccum machine versus 3D digital printed splints in Treatment of Muscle Pain (Electromyogram)

Abstract

The use of hard occlusal splints (Michigan splint) may be a useful tool to promote reduction of muscular pain caused by bruxism, which is one of the parafunctional habits. Aim: To assess the efficacy of hard occlusal splint made by vaccum machine or 3D digital printing with patients reporting muscular pain due to parafunction habit. Methods: In group A Michigan splint was made by vaccum machine and in group B Michigan splint was made by 3D digital printing. An electromyographic (EMG) evaluation of the masseter and temporalis muscle was done before the treatment, then after 3 and 6 months after the initiation of the treatment. Results: Comparison of the electrical activity at the times of measurement revealed a statistically significant difference in masseter and temporalis muscle after 3 and 6 months but revealed no statistical significant difference between different technique of construction.