The exact steps may vary depending on the clinical indication, the type of splint used, and whether the treatment is aimed at stabilization, repositioning, or rehabilitation, however, generally it undergoes the following diagnosis and treatment planning steps:
Initial functional analysis
Static occlusal protocol
Identifying the contact points between the maxillary and mandibular teeth and occlusal stability by checking whether there are equal and simultaneous bilateral contacts.
Evaluation of condylography results
Identifying any deviations, asymmetries, or dysfunctions in mandibular movements.
Determining the treatment goal
Stabilization, decompression, repositioning, or rehabilitation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Choosing the type of splint
Examples include stabilization splints, repositioning splints, or myosplints with the help of test bites.
Splint Fitting and Adjustment
- Initial fitting: Ensuring proper adaptation to the dentition and occlusion.
- Occlusal adjustments: Refining contacts based on dynamic occlusion and condylography data.
Adaptation Phase and Follow-Up
- Monitoring changes in TMJ function: Regular follow-ups to track adaptation and symptom relief.
- Adjustments based on patient response: Fine-tuning occlusal contacts to improve comfort and function.
- Re-evaluation using condylography (if needed): Assessing changes in mandibular movement patterns.
Splint therapy following condylography plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, management, and rehabilitation of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and occlusal dysfunctions. By utilizing condylography data, clinicians can design customized splints that optimize mandibular positioning, improve joint function, and alleviate symptoms associated with TMJ dysfunction.
The staged approach to splint therapy—ranging from initial diagnosis, splint fabrication, and fitting to progressive adjustments and final weaning—ensures a comprehensive treatment strategy. Monitoring mandibular movements with condylography before and after splint application allows for precise assessment of functional changes and long-term stability.
In conclusion, integrating condylography into splint therapy enhances diagnostic accuracy, facilitates personalized treatment planning, and improves therapeutic outcomes. Future advancements in digital occlusal analysis and CAD/CAM splint fabrication may further refine this approach, offering more predictable and efficient solutions for TMJ rehabilitation.