Bicuspid buildup (convertible) splint

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Removable repositioning orthotics often suffer from poor patient compliance.
• This non-compliance can hinder effective treatment outcomes in orthodontic and prosthodontic cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an innovative maxillary appliance designed to overcome patient compliance issues with removable repositioning orthotics.
• To describe a convertible appliance that facilitates mandibular repositioning and subsequent occlusal rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A maxillary appliance featuring an anterior inclined plane with intraocclusal acrylic in the bicuspid area was utilized.
• The appliance was designed for initial mandibular repositioning, followed by the removal of the inclined plane.
• The conversion transforms the device into a bicuspid buildup splint.

Main Results:

• The convertible appliance effectively addresses patient compliance challenges.
• Post-conversion, the appliance is esthetic and allows for normal phonation.
• A new centric occlusion is established solely in the bicuspid area.

Conclusions:

• This novel convertible maxillary appliance offers a practical solution to improve patient compliance in repositioning therapy.
• The design facilitates both initial mandibular repositioning and a stable, esthetic final occlusion.
• Clinicians can benefit from this approach for enhanced treatment efficacy and patient satisfaction.