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Journal of Dental Research
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Clinical

Stereometric Assessment of TMJ Space Variation by Occlusal Splints

D.A. Ettlin*, H. Mang, V. Colombo, S. Palla and L.M. Gallo

Clinic for Masticatory Disorders, Removable Prosthodontics and Special Care Dentistry, Center for Oral Medicine, Dental and Maxillo-Facial Surgery, University of Zürich, Switzerland, Plattenstrasse 11, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland

Correspondence: * corresponding author, dominik.ettlin{at}zzmk.uzh.ch

Occlusal splints are used for the management of temporomandibular disorders, although their mechanism of action remains controversial. This study investigated whether insertion of an occlusal splint leads to condyle-fossa distance changes, and to mandibular rotation and/or translation. By combining magnetic resonance images with jaw tracking (dynamic stereometry), we analyzed the intra-articular distances of 20 human temporomandibular joints (TMJs) before and after insertion of occlusal splints of 3 mm thickness in the first molar region. For habitual closure, protrusion, and laterotrusion in the contralateral joint, occlusal splints led to minor—yet statistically significant—increases of global TMJ space and to larger increases at defined condylar areas. Condylar end rotation and translation in habitual closure were reduced. Hence, the insertion of a 3-mm-thick occlusal splint led to a change in the topographical condyle-fossa relationship, and therefore to a new distribution of contact areas between joint surfaces.

Key Words: biomechanics • Magnetic Resonance Imaging • stress • mechanical • occlusal splints • temporomandibular joint disorders • temporomandibular joint

Journal of Dental Research, Vol. 87, No. 9, 877-881 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/154405910808700903
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