Occlusal Splint Operation Procedure

(1) Anterior Contact Occlusal Splint: This type of occlusal splint only makes contact with the opposing dentition in the anterior region when the mandible is in centric relation. The posterior teeth are separated by the splint and do not make contact.

(2) Full-Row Contact Occlusal Splint:

① Anatomical Type: The surface of the occlusal splint has a grooved, pitted, and cusped anatomical shape. The instep relationship is established based on the patient's centric relation occlusal position. The main purpose of this type of occlusal splint is to compensate for the significantly reduced vertical distance due to wear and other reasons. The patient should be able to perform mastication function while wearing the anatomical type occlusal splint.

② Flat Type: The occlusal surface of the occlusal splint is a smooth, flat surface, also known as a stable occlusal splint. The flat occlusal surface facilitates the adjustment of the mandibular position and has both therapeutic and diagnostic functions.

(3) Special Contact Occlusal Splint: This type of occlusal splint establishes a specific occlusal contact relationship to achieve therapeutic purposes.

① Inducing Splint: While the maxillofacial region also exhibits the morphology of cusps, pits, and fissures, it does not replicate the original centric relation. Instead, it utilizes the anatomical morphology of the cusp slopes to guide the mandible towards a specific therapeutic position. It is commonly used for conservative treatment of reducible anterior displacement of the articular disc and is therefore also known as an occlusal splint.

② Pivot Splint: A pointed, hill-like projection at the distal end of the maxillofacial region contacts the opposing tooth, acting as a lever fulcrum (pivot). During occlusion, the contraction of the mandibular muscles helps to reposition the articular disc. It is suitable for patients with irreducible anterior displacement of the articular disc accompanied by opening and closing locking difficulties.