Clinical evaluation of 3D printed splint in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To use a T-scan (Tekscan, Boston, USA) to evaluate the grinding effect of a three-dimensional (3D) printed occlusal splint and provide reference guidelines for adjusting occlusion and alleviating temporomandibular joint symptoms before orthodontic treatment.

METHODS

Eighteen patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) were treated with 3D-printed stable occlusal plates for three months. The occlusal time (OT) of the dentition and the difference percentage of occlusal force between the left and right sides (Asymmetry index of occlusal force, AOF) were observed one week, one, two, and three months after T-scan-guided occlusal splint treatment. Before and after treatment, we investigated joint space, electromyography (EMG), the maxillofacial pain visual analog scale (VAS), and the Chinese version of the jaw function limitation scale (JFLS).

RESULTS

Significant reductions in OT and AOF were observed across four time points in TMD patients wearing T-scan-guided occlusal splints (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the bilateral masseter muscle (MM) and temporalis anterior (TA) asymmetry index were reduced at the mandibular postural and intercuspal positions. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) showed that the anterior space of the articular had decreased, the posterior space had increased, and the VAS and JFLS scores had decreased significantly (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

T-scan accurately located the abnormal occlusal contact point, guidance enhances occlusal equilibration and may improve TMJ function and symptoms in TMD patients.