Splint Therapy Research Articles

Immediate Evaluation of the Effect of Infrared LED Photobiomodulation on Childhood Sleep Bruxism: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

The gold standard for the management of sleep bruxism (SB) is the use of a rigid occlusal splint; however, there are limitations for its use in children and alternatives to the management of SB are needed. Photobiomodulation therapy has been used with positive results in temporomandibular disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of photobiomodulation therapy with infrared LED in children with SB. Thirty children were divided into three groups: Group 1: control/absence of bruxism (n = 10); Group 2: SB treated with infrared LED (n = 10); Group 3: SB treated with occlusal splint (n = 10). Electromyographic evaluation of masseter, anterior temporalis, and upper trapezius, and salivary dopamine levels were assessed before and after treatments. Data were statistically analyzed using two-way mixed model ANOVA. An increase in the temporalis and right masseter EMG activity at rest was observed in Group 3, with large effect size (p < 0.05). Left masseter and temporalis EMG activity did not differ over time in the LED group, similar to the control group. Moreover, the EMG activity of masticatory muscles during chewing and upper trapezius muscle did not differ over time in all groups. The results also pointed to a difference in the levels of dopamine between children with and without SB, with Group 3 showing higher levels in the pre-treatment time compared to controls (p < 0.025). In conclusion, an increase in the masticatory muscles activity at rest was observed in children undergoing splint therapy. Moreover, a difference in the levels of salivary dopamine was found between children with and without SB.

A randomized-controlled clinical trial comparing the effects of steroid phonophoresis and therapeutic ultrasound in carpal tunnel syndrome.

In this study, we aimed to compare the efficacy of ultrasonography (US) and steroid phonophoresis (PH) treatments in patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Between January 2013 and May 2015, a total of 46 hands of 27 patients (5 males, 22 females; mean age: 47.3+13.7 years; range, 23 to 67 years) with idiopathic mild/moderate CTS without tenor atrophy or spontaneous activity in abductor pollicis brevis were included. The patients were randomly divided into three groups. The first group was ultrasound (US) group, the second group was PH group, and the third group was placebo US group. Continuous US with a frequency of 1 MHz, an intensity of 1.0 W/cm2 was used in the US and the PH groups. The PH group received 0.1% dexamethasone. Placebo group received a frequency of 0 MHz, an intensity of 0 W/cm2 US. Treatments were administered for five days a week, a total of 10 sessions. All patients also wore night splints during treatment. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire consisting of two parts, namely the Symptom Severity Scale and Functional Status Scale), grip strength, and electroneurophysiological evaluations were compared before the treatment, after the treatment, and three months later. All clinical parameters improved in all groups after treatment and at three months, except for the grip strength. Recovery in the sensory nerve conduction velocity between palm and wrist was seen in US group at three months after the treatment; however, recovery in the sensory nerve distal latency between the second finger and palm was seen in PH and placebo groups after treatment and at three months after the treatment. The results of this study suggest that splinting therapy combined with steroid PH, placebo or continuous US is effective for both clinical and electroneurophysiological improvement; however, electroneurophysiological improvement is limited.

Changes in Maximum Mandibular Mobility Due to Splint Therapy in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders.

Splint therapy is widely used in the treatment of myofascial pain, but valid studies on the efficacy of this therapy are rare. The purpose of the present study was to investigate which qualifiable and quantifiable effects of splint therapy are detectable. For this purpose, 29 patients (21 women, mean age 44.6 ± 16 years) diagnosed with myofascial pain (RDC/TMD) were investigated in this prospective clinical trial (10/6/14An). Patients were treated with Michigan splints applied overnight for three months. Before (T1) and after three months of treatment (T2), patients were registered with an electronic ultrasound device with qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the registrations and a qualitative assessment of pain symptoms using a verbal analog scale. Significant differences were found between maximum mouth opening (MMP) (p < 0.001) and right condylar movement (CM) at MMP (p = 0.045). Qualitative assessment revealed that 24 of 29 patients experienced an improvement in pain symptoms, 17 of whom experienced complete remission. The results of the qualitative and quantitative analysis provide indications of the effectiveness of the splint therapy. In addition to quantitative measurements, the ultrasound facebow technique was also able to provide qualitative information.

Disc-condyle relationship alterations following stabilization splint therapy or arthrocentesis plus hyaluronic acid injection in patients with anterior disc displacement: a retrospective cohort study.

The objective of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the efficacy of stabilization splint (SS) therapy or arthrocentesis plus hyaluronic acid (HA) injection in the treatment of anterior disc displacement (ADD) through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 99 subjects were collected in this study. 46 subjects received SS treatment (SS group), 53 subjects received arthrocentesis plus HA injection (HA group). Joints with anterior disc displacement with reduction (ADDwR) and anterior disc displacement without reduction (ADDwoR) were compared separately. MRI before the beginning of the treatment and after a set of treatment were used for measurement. Disc-condyle relationship and positions of condyles and discs were determined by disc-condyle angles and X-Y coordinates. The disc-condyle angles decreased significantly in the SS group (P < .0001). Whereas no significant change was found in the HA group. Substantial anteroinferior condyle movement was detected in the SS group, slight anterior movement of condyles was discovered in the HA group. Anterior shift of discs position was observed in HA group and joints with ADDwoR in the SS group. SS was effective in improving the disc-condyle relationship in ADD subjects, while significant improvement of disc-condyle relationship cannot be achieved through arthrocentesis plus HA injection.

Craniovertebral and Craniomandibular Changes in Patients with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders after Physiotherapy Combined with Occlusal Splint Therapy: A Prospective Case Control Study.

Background and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the craniovertebral and craniomandibular changes in patients diagnosed with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) after physiotherapy combined with occlusal splint therapy. Materials and Methods: There were forty patients (32 females, 80%), diagnosed with TMD, included into the study group. After the initial series of physiotherapy, patients received maxillary occlusal splints to be worn day and night. Participants continued physiotherapy simultaneously with occlusal splint therapy for 6 months. Lateral cephalograms taken in natural head position before and after the end of the therapy were used for measurements. The control group consisted of 15 healthy participants (12 females, 80%), who had taken lateral cephalograms twice, and did not receive any type of occlusal treatment nor physiotherapy in the meantime. Results: Occlusal splint therapy and physiotherapy combined together significantly affected: the vertical position of the mandible (significant increase, p < 0.0001), the sagittal position of mandible (significant decrease, p = 0.0065), as well as the width of the functional space between C1 and C2 (significant decrease, p = 0.0042). Moreover, the cervical lordosis was restored after the end of the treatment (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Cooperation of physiotherapists with dental practitioners is necessary in the treatment of patients with TMD, including temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis.

Efficacy of Customized Soft Occlusal Splints in the Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders among the Population of Parsa District of Nepal

Background: In recent years, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) have been a highly debated topic. TMD is the collective term of clinical problems that involves the masticatory apparatus, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and its associated structures or both. It is really a tough challenge for both the dental and the medical specialists and is often difficult to diagnose and treat such a disorder as the presenting symptoms can be variable. A variety of treatment modalities have been described in the literature for its management and the conservative method is most preferred. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of soft occlusal splint therapy among the population of Parsa district of Nepal in the management of TMDs. Materials and Methods: Thirty subjects with signs and symptoms of TMDs were included in the study, out of which 13 (43.3%) subjects were males and 17 (56.7%) were females, with age ranging from 21 to 40 years. Soft occlusal splints were given to the patients for about 3 months and evaluated for reduced mouth opening, tenderness of TMJ (preauricular), TMJ sounds, and mandibular deviation after 1 week of initiation of therapy and every month for 3 consecutive months. Results: There was a significant improvement of 3.06 mm (9.7%) in mouth opening, 86.7% of subjects showed significant reduction in preauricular tenderness, 80.0% subjects showed reduction in TMJ sounds, and 76.7% of subjects showed improvement in mandibular deviation after 3 months of the splint therapy. Paired t-test and Chi-square tests were done for comparison. Conclusions: Soft occlusal splints can be used effectively as a conservative treatment modality in reducing the signs and symptoms related to TMDs.

AN INSIGHT INTO THE OCCLUSAL SPLINT THERAPY FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS

For many years the occlusal splint therapy has been practiced for the diagnosis and treatment of various temporomandibular joint disorders. Many designs have been discussed in the literature. Each of these occlusal appliances are used for specific conditions. A proper examination and diagnosis is essential for selecting the appropriate appliance for that particular situation. This article reviews about the types, designs and materials used for occlusal splint fabrication. The present article also familiarizes the individual application and uses of each occlusal splint.

Periodontal Therapy With Intracoronal Fiber Splint in Case of Tooth Mobility With Crowded Anterior in Adolescents: A Case Report

Background: Plaque is a significant factor that leads to periodontal disease. One of the most common areas for plaque accumulation is the lower anterior region. Crowding acts as a predisposing factor for plaque accumulation and if not treated eventually leads to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease progression may lead to pathological tooth mobility which can result from acute periodontal inflammation, traumatic occlusion and an apical shift of the rotational center of the tooth as it occurs in advanced alveolar bone loss, and the increased mobility can cause inconveniences for the patient. The new classification of periodontal disease states that teeth with progressive mobility may require splinting therapy to improve patient comfort and additional improvement for the Oral Health-related Quality of Life.&#x0D; Objective: To describe the correction of tooth mobility with intracoronal fiber splint to improve function and comfort.&#x0D; Case Report: A 26-year-old male patient with crowded anterior presented to the Periodontics Department of the Dental and Oral Hospital of Gadjah Mada University (RSGM UGM) with the main complaints of lower front teeth mobility and frequently bleeding of gums, especially when brushing the teeth. The treatment plans of periodontal therapy begins with the initial phase, followed by the correction and the maintenance phases. In the initial phase, DHE, SRP, desensitization, occlusion adjustment and intracoronal fiber splint were carried out to eliminate inflammation and stabilize the mobility of the teeth.&#x0D; Conclusion: The splint is a periodontal therapy done through the redistribution of forces on the affected teeth, the splint minimizes the impact of the loss of support. The loss of support structures of the teeth leads to the mobility of the teeth. Increased mobility of the teeth affects the function, aesthetics and comfort of the patient. Splints are used to overcome all these&#x0D; Keywords: periodontal therapy, intracoronal fiber splint, mobility

Effects of Occlusal Splints on Spinal Posture in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review.

There is still a gap in the scientific knowledge on the linkage between craniofacial structure and spinal postural control in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients. This systematic review aimed to assess the role of occlusal splints on spinal posture of TMD patients. PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were systematically searched from inception until 5 January 2022 to identify observational studies with a longitudinal study design presenting: patients with diagnosis of TMD according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD); occlusal splint therapy as intervention; postural assessment as outcome. Out of 133 records identified, 104 were suitable for data screening, and only 7 articles were included satisfying the eligibility criteria. We found that occlusal splints might have a positive effect on posture in TMD patients, albeit there is little evidence of appropriate investigation for postural assessment. This systematic review suggested that the occlusal splint might be considered a non-invasive therapeutic approach for patients with TMD. However, the low number of studies with high-quality methodology in these patients showed an urgent need for further research using combined force platform stabilometry and kinematic evaluation of the spine to investigate the impact of occlusal splints on posture.

A cyst-like erosion in the mandibular condyle associated with malocclusion and its healing process in an 8-year-old patient: A case report

The etiology of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) is multifactorial. Occlusal discrepancy is one of the predisposing factors for TMD development. This case report describes the healing process of a cyst-like erosion in the superior aspect of the condyle with pain attributable to occlusal discrepancy. The patient was an 8-year-old boy who presented with a posterior crossbite and pain in his right temporomandibular joint. Pretreatment cone-beam computed tomography revealed a cyst-like erosion in the superior aspect of the right condyle. Splint therapy was performed to determine whether there was a relationship between the posterior crossbite and joint pain using a mandibular stabilization splint. During splint therapy, the pain was relieved, and an occlusal interference appeared on the maxillary left lateral incisor, which was responsible for the lateral shift of the mandible and posterior crossbite. The cone-beam computed tomography images acquired over 2 years showed repair of the affected condyle. As shown in this patient, stabilizing the condylar position is one of the methods to determine the relationship between TMD and occlusion.

Dry needling and upper cervical spinal manipulation in patients with temporomandibular disorder: A multi-center randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT Objective To compare the effects of dry needling and upper cervical spinal manipulation with interocclusal splint therapy, diclofenac, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) mobilization in patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Methods One hundred-twenty patients with TMD were randomized to receive six treatment sessions of dry needling plus upper cervical spinal manipulation (n = 62) or interocclusal splint therapy, diclofenac, and joint mobilization to the TMJ (n = 58). Results Patients receiving dry needling and upper cervical spinal manipulation experienced significantly greater reductions in jaw pain intensity over the last 7 days (VAS: F = 23.696; p < 0.001) and active pain-free mouth opening (F = 29.902; p < 0.001) than those receiving interocclusal splint therapy, diclofenac, and TMJ mobilization at the 3-month follow-up. Conclusion Dry needling and upper cervical spinal manipulation was more effective than interocclusal splint therapy, diclofenac, and TMJ mobilization in patients with TMD.

Treatment efficacy using occlusal splint for anterior disc displacement without reduction of temporomandibular joint

Management of TMDs with occlusal splint is a reversible, non- invasive modality which causes minimum damage to tissues, when compared to other irreversible treatment modalities. Objectives of this study is to assess the effectiveness of flat occlusal splint in patients with anterior disc displacement without reduction by evaluating reduction in pain and improvement in mouth opening. 35 participants with mean age 35 years who does not have any systemic diseases and not undergoing treatment for ADD without reduction were selected for study. After recording pain score on VAS scale and maximum mouth opening, flat occlusal splint was fabricated for maxillary arch. Patients were advised to wear the splint for all the time except on meal times. Maximum mouth opening and pain score were again evaluated after 3 weeks. Statistical results showed that there is highly significant reduction in pain score and increase in maximum mouth opening. Mean VAS score before treatment was 7.26±0.88. After treatment with splint therapy, VAS score was reduced to 2.94±1.41. The mean value of maximum mouth opening before treatment was 23.09±4.25. After treatment with splint therapy, it was increased to 30.37±5.43. Both parameters had p value &amp;#60;0.001, which is highly significant statistically. Significant reduction in pain score and improvement in mouth opening noted after using flat occlusal splint in patients having ADD without reduction. However, further studies are needed on a long term basis for better results.

Prognostic indicators of arthroscopic discopexy for management of temporomandibular joint closed lock

In order to optimize patient selection for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopic discopexy to achieve favorable outcomes, prognostic indicators impacting the results are important to analyze. This longitudinal retrospective study aimed to analyze various prognostic factors impacting surgical outcomes following arthroscopic discopexy for management of TMJ closed lock using success criteria based on pain, maximal interincisal opening, diet, and quality of life. Furthermore, a quantitative MRI assessment was performed pre- and post-operatively. Multivariate analysis was used to evaluate various prognostic variables including gender, age, side, duration of illness, Wilkes staging, parafunctional habits, splint therapy and orthodontic treatment. A total of 147 patients (201 joints) were included. The outcome was categorized as excellent (n = 154/76.61%), good (n = 34/16.91%), or poor (n = 13/6.46%) with a success rate of 93.54%. Patients aged > 30 years old (p = 0.048), longer duration of illness (12–24 months: p = 0.034) and (> 24 months: p = 0.022), and patients with Wilkes stage IV (p = 0.002) were all significantly more likely to be in the poor outcome group. Finally, orthodontic treatment showed a significant association with excellent outcomes (p = 0.015). Age, duration of illness, Wilkes staging, and orthodontic treatment are considered significant prognostic factors that can predict the outcomes following the arthroscopic discopexy for management of TMJ closed lock.

Do the Mandibular Condyles Change Their Positions within Glenoid Fossae after Occlusal Splint Therapy Combined with Physiotherapy in Patients Diagnosed with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders? A Prospective Case Control Study.

The research question was: do the mandibular condyles change their position within glenoid fossae after treatment combining occlusal splint therapy and physiotherapy in patients diagnosed with temporomandibular disorders (TMD)? Forty patients with TMD were included into the study. They underwent initial physiotherapy, and a six-month treatment of occlusal splint therapy with physiotherapy. Cone-beam computed tomography images of temporomandibular joints (TMJs) were taken before and after the treatment. The control group consisted of 15 asymptomatic patients, who did not receive any type of occlusal treatment. The changes in the dimension of anterior, superior, posterior, and medial joint spaces after the end of the treatment in patients with TMD were statistically insignificant. The average value of condylar ratio was significantly higher after the end of the treatment (p = 0.025). The changes in the condylar sagittal position were statistically insignificant. Occlusal splint therapy with physiotherapy did not change significantly the dimension of joint spaces, nor placed the mandibular condyles into the centric relation. Treatment of patients with TMD should not aim at gnathological concept of placing the mandibular condyles into centric relation, because centric relation appears not to be mandatory to achieve successful results of treatment in patients with TMD.

Occlusal splint therapy in patients with Ménière's disease and temporomandibular joint disorder.

SUMMARYObjectiveThis retrospective study aimed to verify the outcomes of stabilising occlusal splint therapy prescribed to 22 patients with unilateral definite Ménière’s disease and comorbid temporomandibular joint disorder.MethodsThe results of a battery of audiometric and vestibular tests were recorded before and after 6 months of treatment, as well as the scores of disease-specific questionnaires.ResultsThe average hearing threshold in the affected ear and the acoustic immittance were unchanged. No spontaneous and positional nystagmus were recorded. Caloric hypo-responsiveness and vestibular myogenic evoked responses did not vary. No changes of stabilometric body sway parameters in eyes opened condition and with optokinetic stimulation delivered to the unaffected labyrinth were observed. A significant reduction was recorded in eyes closed condition and with the optokinetic stimulation toward the affected ear. The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, the Situational Vertigo Questionnaire and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale scores improved. The number of vertigo attacks was reduced.ConclusionsOcclusal splint therapy is a favourable option to reduce aural symptoms of Ménière’s disease and comorbid temporomandibular joint disorder, even if its pathophysiological mechanism remains elusive.

Aggressive paediatric camptodactyly: The evolution of a proposed treatment algorithm

It is a long-established teaching to avoid operating on camptodactyly unless there is a failure of non-operative treatment, such as serial splinting and hand therapy, and there is an established proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) contracture of 60°; a recent systematic review reflects this continuing approach, with some papers advocating intervention with a lesser degree of contracture. To evaluate whether early flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) release, followed by gentle passive manipulation (GPM), will correct severe 'congenital' camptodactyly, if undertaken at an earlier age than usual, thus avoiding the more aggressive surgical approach required in the established adolescent cases. The surgical technique and treatment algorithm are described. A multi-centre case series is presented; data analysis included patient demographics, syndromic association, side/digit affected, ages at onset, progression, referral and at surgery, operation details, pre- and post-operative contracture and range of motion. There were 12 patients (3 males, 9 females) who underwent 15 operations for 24 involved digits. Patients had surgery by 3 months (median) post-referral, and there was a significant improvement in median (range) PIPJ contracture (90°(30°-90°) vs. 0°(0°-45°); p<0.001) and range of motion (0°(0°-60°) vs. 90°(50°-95°); p<0.001), at a median post-operative follow-up of 2.5 years. According to the Siegert grade, 87.5% of digits had excellent/good post-operative outcomes and 12.5% had fair outcomes. This paper specifically addresses the problem of aggressive and progressive camptodactyly in the young child. By this, we mean patients who have failed non-operative treatment and have PIPJ contractures ≥60°, and those whose contractures have increased by 30° within 1 year. All cases responded to early FDS release and GPM, hence correcting the PIPJ contracture. However, cases with multiple digital involvement, whether syndromic or not, and failed previous surgery or the older child, required additional procedures to restore a dynamic dorsal apparatus and active extension.

Case Report: Digital analysis of occlusion with T-Scan Novus in occlusal splint treatment for a patient with bruxism

Bruxism is a disease with a multifactorial etiology. Its clinical manifestations are most often an unaesthetic smile with abraded tooth surfaces, temporomandibular disorders and muscle hyperactivity. Here we present a case of bruxism where proper articulation of the occlusal splint was performed using the T-scan Novus system. A patient with bruxism underwent treatment with stabilization splint made by 3D printer technology. Intraoral scanning was performed using Trios Color (3Shape, 2014), and the digital design was achieved using the 3Shape Dental system design - splint studio. Formlabs Form 2 printer with biocompatible resin Dental LT Clear Resin was used for printing. The T-Scan Novus system with software attached to it, version 9.1, was used for digital examination of the occlusion. A 2.7 mm thick occlusal splint was developed, and the software adapted the occlusion with antagonists. After adjustment with T-Scan Novus, a reduction in disocclusion time of the patient was achieved, which is a desired result in the treatment of bruxism. The position of the joint components was proven radiologically. The treatment of bruxism with splint therapy continues to be the main method of treatment. Using digital technology allows for more accurate constructions and precise balancing of occlusal relationships.

Biometric Assessment of Temporomandibular Disorders in Orthodontics: A Multi-arm Randomized Controlled Trial.

This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the role of fixed orthodontic treatment in the aggravation, precipitation, or alleviation of temporomandibular disorders in young adults. Sixty patients were randomly assigned to 4 groups of 15 patients each (group I, orthodontic treatment in temporomandibular disorder-free orthodontic patients; group II, orthodontic treatment in patients with mild symptoms of temporomandibular disorders; group III, splint therapy accompanied by orthodontic treatment in patients with moderate symptoms; and group IV, control with no treatment). The biometric equipment used were the T-scan, to analyze the occlusal component; the BioEMG for muscular analysis; BioJVA for temporomandibular joint acoustic analysis; and JT3D for mandibular kinematic analysis. The paired t-test and ANOVA were used for intragroup and intergroup comparisons, respectively. The difference between groups was assessed using post hoc Tukey's test. Groups I and III showed significant difference in the occlusal, muscular, temporomandibular joint vibration, and kinematic mandibular assessment variables. Group II showed significant improvement in occlusal variables only. Group IV did not show improvement in any of the variables except for certain muscular components. Successful practical utilization of biometric equipment revealed that fixed orthodontic treatment does not aggravate temporomandibular disorders. It was also found that temporomandibular disorders due to malocclusion can be treated successfully with orthodontic treatment, whereas temporomandibular disorders due to multifactorial temporomandibular joint and muscular components might require splint therapy before orthodontic intervention.

Mandibular Advancement Splint Therapy.

Mandibular advancement splint (MAS) therapy is the leading alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea. A MAS is an oral appliance which advances the mandible in relation to the maxilla, thus increasing airway calibre and reducing collapsibility. Although it is less effective than CPAP in reducing the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI), it has demonstrated equivalence to CPAP in a number of key neurobehavioural and cardiovascular health outcomes, perhaps due to increased tolerability and patient adherence when compared to CPAP. However, response to MAS is variable, and reliable prediction tools for patients who respond best to MAS therapy have thus far been elusive; this is one of the key clinical barriers to wider uptake of MAS therapy. In addition, the most effective MAS devices are custom-made by a dentist specialising in the treatment of sleep disorders, which may present financial or accessibility barriers for some patients. MAS devices are generally well tolerated but may have side effects including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, hypersalivation, tooth pain and migration as well as occlusal changes. A patient-centred approach to treatment from a multidisciplinary team perspective is recommended. Evidence-based clinical practice points and areas of future research are summarised at the conclusion of the chapter.

Effect of Occlusal Splint Therapy on Condylar Movements Recorded Using an Electronic Pantograph: A Prospective Clinical Study.

The effect of occlusal splint therapy on the muscle activity has been addressed in the literature. However, its effect on condylar movements in subjects with normal and abnormal occlusions has not yet been investigated. This prospective clinical study addressed the effect of occlusal splint therapy on condylar movements in subjects with normal and abnormal occlusions using an electronic pantograph. Two groups of subjects were included in this study. The first group included subjects with normal occlusion, whereas the subjects in the other group were diagnosed with abnormal occlusion. The occlusal splint was fabricated, adjusted clinically, and delivered for each subject. Condylar movements were recorded using a Cadiax Compact II electronic pantograph at baseline, 2-, 4-, and 6-month follow-up periods to assess sagittal condylar inclination (SCI), immediate mandibular lateral translation (IMLT), and progressive mandibular lateral translation (PMLT). The t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and two-way ANOVA were used to compare the parameters between the groups and to assess the time effect on these parameters (α = 0.05). Twenty subjects were recruited for this study (n = 10). Among them, 12 were women and eight were men, with a mean age of 34 years. In each group, insignificant differences were reported for each tested parameter at baseline and during the follow-up periods (P > 0.05). However, when comparing the two groups, the only significant difference was found in the SCI during the 6-month follow-up period (P = 0.014). Occlusal splints had an insignificant effect on the parameters SCI, IMLT, and PMLT up to 6 months of follow-up for subjects with normal or abnormal occlusion. SCI increased substantially in normal occlusion subjects compared with abnormal occlusion subjects during the 6-month follow-up period.