The occlusal digital splint may be used to treat patients suffering from temporomandibular joint dysfunction disorders as it effectively reduces pain. 

A study was carried to develop and assess the occlusal digital splint for managing patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

The study recruited 17 patients (age 30-49) diagnosed with temporomandibular joint dysfunction. An occlusal digital splint for all participants was manufactured in order to normalize the mandibular position. An intensity of pain sensations in all participants before and after the treatment was evaluated by a visual analogue scale, along with the alterations in the mandibular movements’ amplitude, and the stability of occlusal contacts, and the signs of splint wear.

Participants were found to adapt well to the splint. They were found to be convenient in use and sufficiently effective to treat temporomandibular joint dysfunction. A decline in pain intensity and restoration of mandibular movements’ amplitude were witnessed with certainty. Only in 2 (11.7%) cases, the signs of wear on the splint were reported, as noted by the alterations in the pre-therapy occlusal contacts. In all other cases throughout the analysis, a stable occlusal contact has been noted.

The occlusal digital splint may be considered as a promising therapeutic choice for patients suffering from temporomandibular joint dysfunction disorders.