Effect of Different Splint Thicknesses on Occlusal Function and Temporomandibular Joint Sounds: A Clinical Report

Background: Occlusal splint therapy, which is a conservativeapproach to treat temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and bruxism, can change the occlusal contact ofdentition. However, little is known about the variation in bite force and temporomandibularjoint (TMJ) sounds. The objective of this case report is to compare the effectsof different splint thicknesses constructed by vacuum lamination technology on occlusalfunction and TMJ sounds. Clinical Presentation: This study presents a24-year-old male with bruxism. Four splints of different thicknesses (0.6 mm, 1mm, 2.5 mm and 3 mm) were fabricated and tested. Then, an array of occlusaldata were recorded and analyzed by the T-Scan®III system and joint vibration analysis (JVA). Conclusion: The results reveal thatsplints of different thicknesses manufactured by the vacuum hot-laminationapparatus may cause a change in occlusal force.