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A digital process for additive manufacturing of occlusal splints: a clinical pilot study
Mika Salmi1, Kaija-Stiina Paloheimo, Jukka Tuomi
1Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, BIT Research Centre, Aalto University, Aalto, Finland. mika.salmi@aalto.fi
Journal of the Royal Society, Interface
|April 26, 2013
Summary
This study developed a digital process for creating occlusal splints using stereolithography. The 3D-printed splints effectively treated temporomandibular disorders, showing good patient adaptation and minimal wear.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Digital Dentistry
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) often require occlusal splints.
- Traditional splint manufacturing is time-consuming and labor-intensive.
- Digital workflows offer potential for improved efficiency and precision in dental prosthetics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a digital manufacturing process for occlusal splints.
- To assess the clinical functionality and patient acceptance of 3D-printed occlusal splints.
- To compare the accuracy of digital manufacturing against traditional methods.
Main Methods:
- Alginate impressions of dental arches were digitized using a table laser scanner.
- 3D models were repaired and occlusal splints designed using specialized CAD software (3Data Expert, Viscam RP).
- Splints were fabricated from biocompatible photopolymer via stereolithography (SLA 350).
Main Results:
- The patient with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) reported comfort and effective relief from bite muscle tension.
- No significant tooth wear or splint degradation was observed after six months of nightly use.
- Dimensional accuracy showed maximum errors of approximately 1 mm at thin walls and sharp corners compared to the digital model.
Conclusions:
- Modern digital technology, including stereolithography, can produce clinically functional occlusal splints.
- This digital workflow has the potential to reduce manufacturing costs, dental technician time, and chair-side time.
- 3D-printed occlusal splints offer a viable, patient-accepted alternative for managing TMD.
