Finite element analysis of occlusal splint therapy in patients with bruxism
Seifollah Gholampour, Hanie Gholampour, and Hamed Khanmohammadi
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(Ref ID): PMC6727492
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Title: Summary of Research Paper on “Finite element analysis of occlusal splint therapy in patients with bruxism”
I. IntroductionThe research paper titled "Finite element analysis of occlusal splint therapy in patients with bruxism" aims to assess the effectiveness of occlusal splint therapy in treating bruxism, a condition often associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Bruxism, characterized by teeth grinding and clenching, has significant impacts on oral health. The paper addresses the need for suitable strategies for treating bruxism and explores the biomechanical factors involved in TMJ disorders.
II. MethodologyThe study utilized a research design involving three-dimensional models of maxilla, mandible, and teeth, created using in-vivo image data from 37 patients and 36 control subjects. The researchers calculated the maximum values of stress and deformation in the jaw bone and head of the mandible in patients both before and six months after using an occlusal splint. Data collection involved CT scans and cone-beam CT scanning. The researchers employed the finite element method (FEM) for data analysis.
III. ResultsThe study found that patients with bruxism had significantly higher levels of stress and deformation in the jaw bone and head of the mandible compared to the control subjects. However, after six months of occlusal splint therapy, there was a substantial decrease in both stress and deformation in the treated patients. The occlusal splint therapy primarily affected the jaw bone adjacent to the molar teeth.
IV. DiscussionThe results of the study indicate that occlusal splint therapy acts as a stress relaxer and helps dissipate the extra stresses and TMJ deformation caused by bruxism. The study highlights the importance of creating a biomechanical equilibrium between the normal loading and the generated stress. The researchers discuss the implications of their findings for the treatment of bruxism and the management of TMJ disorders. However, the study acknowledges limitations such as a relatively small sample size and the assumption of biomechanical equivalence.
V. ConclusionIn summary, the research paper demonstrates that occlusal splint therapy is an effective treatment option for patients with bruxism. The therapy helps reduce stress and deformation, providing relief from TMJ disorders associated with bruxism. The study's contribution lies in its quantitative assessment of the effectiveness of occlusal splint therapy and the exploration of biomechanical factors influencing the disease. Further research is needed to address the limitations of the study and explore other potential treatment strategies for bruxism and TMJ disorders. Overall, this research paper adds valuable insights to the field of bruxism treatment and the management of TMJ disorders.
Fig. 1
The point clouds of the maxilla, mandible and teeth. b 3D model. c Meshed model
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