ASSESSMENT OF 3D-PRINTED OCCLUSAL SPLINT USED IN THE TREATMENT OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDER IN FEMALE PATIENTS

Background: This study aimed to assess 3D-printed occlusal splint, used in the treatment of patients with
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD), comparing with conventional occlusal splints regarding radiographic evaluation
using CBCT and patient satisfaction.
Materials and Methods: A prospective crossover design was conducted at The Outpatient’s Clinic of The Prosthesis
Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Egypt. 12 female patients were diagnosed to
have TMD without disc displacement using ultrasound. There were two categories for each case: Splints made of
traditional heat-cured acrylic resin (PMMA) were given to six patients in Group A for their maxillary occlusal joints,
then they went through a 1-month washout period, after that they received maxillary occlusal splint constructed by 3D
printed technique. Group B: received maxillary occlusal splints constructed by 3D Printed technique, they went
through a 1-month washout period, after that they received maxillary occlusal splints constructed by the conventional
method.
Results: the results of the study showed that, both types of splints led to change at the condylar position. However, the
3D printed splint demonstrated statistically significant changes, particularly on the left side, while the conventional
splint showed non-significant changes. Patient satisfaction significantly improved in both groups, with higher scores
reported in the 3D printed splint group.
Conclusion: According to the results of the study, the 3D printed occlusal splint demonstrated notable clinical
effectiveness in the management of TMD