title: Stereometric assessment of TMJ space variation by occlusal splints.
abstract: 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.
authors: Clinic for Masticatory Disorders, Removable Prosthodontics and Special Care Dentistry, Center for Oral Medicine, Dental and Maxillo-Facial Surgery, University of Zürich, Switzerland. dominik.ettlin@zzmk.uzh.ch
authors: D A
authors: DA
authors: Ettlin
authors: H
authors: H
authors: Mang
authors: V
authors: V
authors: Colombo
authors: S
authors: S
authors: Palla
authors: L M
authors: LM
authors: Gallo
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D016302:Centric Relation; D002508:Cephalometry; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D017090:Occlusal Splints; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012016:Reference Values; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014716:Vertical Dimension