Treated with occlusal splint therapy
Reference
PMC3774939 (Ref ID)
Chosen Image filename: PMC3774939_Figure_02.jpg
Document structure and format:
I. Introduction
The research paper titled "Computerized analysis of occlusal contacts in bruxism patients treated with occlusal splint therapy" explores the effects of occlusal splint therapy on occlusion in patients with bruxism. Bruxism, characterized by grinding or clenching of teeth, can lead to tooth wear and other complications. The study aims to identify differences in occlusal changes between individuals with bruxism and healthy individuals after receiving occlusal splint therapy.
II. Methodology
The study utilized a research design that involved evaluating occlusal contacts in bruxism patients and a control group before and after occlusal splint therapy. Data was collected using a computerized occlusal analysis system called T-Scan III, which measured occlusion and disclusion times as well as left-right and anterior-posterior contact distributions. Statistical analyses, including Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney U tests, were conducted to analyze the data.
III. Results
The key findings of the research indicated that there were no differences in posterior contact of bruxism patients before and after stabilization splint treatment. However, there were differences in posterior contact between bruxism patients and healthy individuals before treatment, which disappeared after treatment.
IV. Discussion
The results of the study were analyzed and interpreted in relation to the research question and objectives. It was concluded that the use of a stabilization splint may not have a significant effect on occlusion. However, the study found that the area of posterior occlusal contact among bruxism patients was greater than that of healthy individuals. The clinical use of splints was deemed safe based on the study's findings.
The implications and significance of the study's findings were discussed, highlighting the controversies surrounding the efficacy and indications of occlusal appliances. The study also addressed the limitations of the research, such as the small sample size and the lack of long-term follow-up. Areas for further research were identified, including investigations into the long-term effects of occlusal splint therapy.
V. Conclusion
In conclusion, the research paper provided insights into the effects of occlusal splint therapy on occlusion in bruxism patients. It was found that while the use of a splint did not have a significant impact on occlusion, bruxism patients had a greater posterior occlusal contact area compared to healthy individuals. The paper contributes to the field by highlighting the safety of using splints and identifying the need for further research in this area.
Fig. 2 Representative T-Scan images for each group. (A) Control, (B) Pre-treatment, (C) Post-treatment.
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