Establishing a CAD/CAM workflow for stabilization appliances (Michigan splints).

Area of Science:

• Dental Technology
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Digital Dentistry

Background:

• Stabilization appliances, such as Michigan splints, are standard for managing bruxism and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).
• Traditional fabrication involves manual wax modeling and resin pressing onto physical casts from impressions.
• This conventional method is time-consuming and can lead to variations in material quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a fully digital workflow for fabricating stabilization splints.
• To demonstrate the application of intraoral scanning and CAD/CAM technology in this process.
• To highlight the benefits of a digital approach for dental practitioners and technicians.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing intraoral scanners to capture digital impressions of the oral cavity.
• Employing computer-aided design (CAD) software to design the stabilization splint on a digital cast.
• Manufacturing the splint autonomously using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) grinding machines in a subtractive process.

Main Results:

• The digital workflow enables autonomous manufacturing of stabilization splints via CAM.
• Eliminates the need for traditional wax modeling and physical cast fabrication, saving time and cost.
• Ensures homogenous splint material quality through precise digital control.

Conclusions:

• The described all-digital workflow offers an efficient and precise alternative for fabricating stabilization splints.
• This CAD/CAM approach is suitable for both dental practitioners and technicians, improving workflow efficiency.
• The digital method enhances the consistency and quality of splint fabrication for bruxism and TMD management.