Effect of Nocturnally Worn Occlusal Splints on Condylar Position

Area of Science:

• Dental occlusion
• Craniomandibular dysfunction
• Temporomandibular joint disorders

Background:

• Continuous occlusal splint wear can alter mandibular position in patients with craniomandibular dysfunction.
• This study investigated if nocturnal splint use affects mandibular position in healthy individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if night-time wear of stabilization splints causes changes in mandibular position in healthy individuals.
• To assess the impact of nocturnal occlusal splint use on the maximal intercuspal position (MIP) and centric condylar position (CR).

Main Methods:

• 13 healthy participants wore maxillary stabilization splints exclusively at night for 3 weeks.
• Mandibular position (MIP and CR) was recorded using a measuring articulator and thermoplastic registration material.
• Positional differences were compared between baseline and after 7 days and 3 weeks of splint wear.

Main Results:

• No significant changes in mandibular position were observed between centric condylar position (CR) and maximal intercuspal position (MIP) after nocturnal splint use.
• The measured differences in mandibular position remained consistent throughout the study period.
• Occlusal adjustments were necessary during splint delivery, indicating potential fit issues despite standard procedures.

Conclusions:

• Night-time wear of stabilization splints does not appear to change mandibular position in healthy individuals.
• The findings suggest that nocturnal splint use is a safe intervention regarding mandibular position changes in this population.
• A secondary finding highlighted the need for occlusal adjustments during splint delivery, even when using facebows and registration techniques.