Splints in Orthodontic Therapy

Abstract

Splint is defined as a rigid appliance used to connect and mutually support teeth and bones. Dental splints are often used as short term treatment during orthodontic management, before orthodontic treatment or temperomandibular disorders (TMDs) occurring during dentofacial orthopaedic procedures. A new mandibular posture is achieved by occlusal splint, thus leading to a new muscular and articular balance. The splints work by distribution of force, normalising periodontal ligament proprioception, relaxing the muscles, allowing the condyles to seat in centric relation, cognitive awareness theory, and placebo effect. Various splints used in orthodontic therapy include bite plane splint, flat plane splint, anterior repositioning splint, posterior bite plane, pivot appliance, soft splint, and hydrostatic appliance.

Keywords: Articular balance, bite plane, centric relation, mandibular advancement, pivot appliance, soft splint

Cite this Article

Shradha Kadam, Pavankumar Vibhute, Chetan Patil, M Balagangadhar, Vinay Umale, Balaji Kendre. Splints in Orthodontic Therapy. Research & Reviews: A Journal of Dentistry g. 2020; 11(3): 7–13p.