The evaluation of the reduction of symptoms of TMJ disorders by occlusal splint adjusted at vertical dimension of rest registered by two methods: A comparative study

Bruxism can cause signs and symptoms of temperomandibular disorders (TMD). Moreover, it will affect structures of the masticatory system. The most commonly established treatment approach for both bruxism and TMD is conservative and reversible management which include often occlusal devices (splints). Following ethical approval, 16 Male dental patients, with signs and symptoms of TMD due to bruxism were enrolled. Patients were randomly divided into two groups, eight patients in each according to the fabrication of the stabilization splint at occlusal opening of rest position of the mandible. Primary impressions were made, poured to form study casts upon which special trays were fabricated. Then, final impressions and master casts were made on which a full arch mandibular plane occlusal splint (stabilization type) in heat cured acrylic was made over the occlusal and incisal surface of the teeth. In group one, splint thickness (ST) made according to the height of rest vertical dimension (VDR) registered by using divine proportion method. While in group two, ST made according to the height of rest vertical dimension registered by conventional method. For all the patients, the index for clinical dysfunction of masticatory system validated by Helkimo was obtained to determine the degree of TMD. In patients with signs and symptoms of TMD syndrome and bruxism, a plane occlusal splint (stabilization splint) with occlusal opening up to the VDR produces relief of symptoms. The divine proportion method gives consistent measurement and Alammari et al., 2013: Vol 1 (3) [email protected] 1 American Journal of Research Communication www.usa‐journals.com should be considered a reliable method for determination of VDR especially in TMD persons.