Effect of occlusal splint on masticatory movement in healthy individuals

Cranio. 1997 Apr;15(2):127-31. doi: 10.1080/08869634.1997.11746002.

Abstract

To investigate the effects of wearing an occlusal splint on masticatory movements in healthy individuals, twelve healthy individuals were examined. A full maxillary stabilization splint made of heat-cured acrylic resin was fabricated for, and worn by, each individual for 24 hours. Masticatory movement was measured before and after the 24-hour period using a 3-D mandibular movement analyzing system. While the duration of a masticatory cycle+ did not change, the occlusal time significantly decreased after use of the splint. The lateral displacement of the opening phase to the balancing-side area also decreased after use of the splint, showing a vertical pattern of the opening path. Measurement in more healthy individuals and patients should help clarify the therapeutic mechanism of the splint in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Dental Occlusion, Centric
  • Dental Occlusion, Traumatic / etiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Jaw Relation Record / instrumentation
  • Male
  • Mandible / physiology
  • Mastication*
  • Occlusal Splints* / adverse effects
  • Vertical Dimension