When proper occlusion with the upper teeth is produced we have the exact position which should be occupied by the fragments of the mandible. The sawed portions of the lower cast are then fixed with plaster in the corrected position, after which the articulator is opened until the casts are in the same relative positions which the upper and lower jaws should occupy during the after-treatment. <Callout type="important" title="Key Step">Correct occlusion ensures proper alignment for splinting.</Callout> The interval between the upper and lower dentures is then filled in with beeswax and worked out in detail of the size and proportion desired for the interdental splint. Openings in the splint for the admission of food must be provided for. When the patient wears a complete set of false teeth these may, by proper alteration, be used as a splint during the after-treatment of the fracture.<Callout type="risk" title="Potential Risk">Using existing dentures without modification can lead to improper alignment and ineffective treatment.</Callout> Wedges of dental composition or gutta-percha may be used between the teeth as splints. They are much more easily applied but do not allow the drinking of hot liquids while in use.
The chief representatives under this heading are the appliances devised by Kingsley, Ackland and Matas. Kingsley's appliance is a moulded splint conforming with the irregularities of the inferior dental arcade and holds the fragments in reduction by means of counter-pressure beneath the chin.<Callout type="tip" title="Pro Tip">Kingsley’s method uses lateral arms for bandages to secure the splint.</Callout> The Matas splint consists of an adjustable clamp to be applied to the lower jaw. This splint is adjustable and is supplied with different sizes of chin plates and dental splints.
This form of splint is particularly useful when other methods would be unsatisfactory because of partial or complete loss of teeth. When properly placed there will be a triangular geometrical figure with its first 'stretch' a long horizontal line from median to superior lateral loop, a short perpendicular line from the superior to the inferior lateral loop and a long slanting diagonal line from inferior lateral to median loop.
Key Takeaways
- Proper occlusion is crucial for aligning mandibular fragments correctly.
- Different materials and methods can be used to create interdental splints, each with its own advantages and limitations.
- Adjustable clamps and chin plates are essential components of some dental splint designs.
Practical Tips
- Ensure proper occlusion before fixing the mandibular fragments in place.
- Use existing dentures as a base for creating interdental splints when possible.
- Apply lateral arms to secure the splint with bandages beneath the chin.
Warnings & Risks
- Improper alignment of dental splints can lead to ineffective treatment and potential complications.
- Using hot liquids while wearing certain types of splints may cause discomfort or damage.
Modern Application
While modern materials and techniques have advanced, understanding historical methods like those described here is crucial for emergency situations where specialized equipment isn't available. The principles of proper occlusion and secure fixation remain relevant today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the advantages of using existing dentures as a base for interdental splints?
Using existing dentures can provide a stable foundation, ensuring that the splint is correctly aligned with the patient's dental structure.
Q: Why might gutta-percha or dental composition splints be less satisfactory than vulcanite splints?
Gutta-percha and dental composition splints do not allow for the drinking of hot liquids while in use, which can limit patient comfort and mobility.
Q: What is the purpose of counter-pressure beneath the chin in dental splinting techniques?
Counter-pressure beneath the chin helps to secure the fragments in place by providing additional support and stability to the splint.