Temporary splinting is used during periodontal treatment until the prognosis for the further functioning of individual teeth with severe mobility is determined. Temporary splints can be used from a few days to several months and even longer thanks to the development of adhesive technologies.
Temporary splinting is also relevant for conservative and surgical treatment of periodontal diseases. Pathological tooth mobility often increases after removal of dental plaque, gingivotomy or curettage of periodontal pockets. Temporary splints prevent such complications and have a positive effect on the psycho-emotional state of the patient.
Features of the splinting procedure
In dentistry, there are many types of diseases that can potentially increase tooth mobility. This causes severe discomfort and negatively affects the condition of the jaw apparatus. It becomes difficult for a person to chew and he has to adhere to a special diet.
To solve this problem, you need to use a splinting technique. At its core, this is a procedure for strengthening teeth, which allows you to connect several units in a row and protect them from falling out.
The application of a splint is necessary so that there is not such a strong load on the gums, and other treatment methods can be freely applied. At the same time, it will be much more comfortable for the patient to chew different types of food.
Unloading tissue with splinting helps reduce the intensity of the inflammatory process. This is especially useful for periodontitis, when it is necessary to keep the gums in a calm state while doctors carry out general sanitation and restore damaged teeth.
In this material we will tell you in more detail how teeth splinting is done, what products are used in the process, and also touch on many other important issues regarding the procedure.
Classification
There are often cases when it is possible to splint with several types of products. In this case, the patient takes an active part in choosing the type of splint, which is classified according to the following criteria.
By installation method
- Removable;
- Fixed.
By time
- Permanent – up to several years;
- Semi-permanent – for several months;
- Temporary – 1-4 weeks;
At the installation location
- Frontal – on the front teeth in the smile zone;
- Sagittal - on the lateral teeth that are not visible when smiling;
- Frontosagittal – cover a large area of the dentition;
- Parasagittal - installed on 2 sides.
Parasagittal splints belong to a separate type, since they are made in a dental laboratory according to one sample.
By shape
- Direct – for splinting 1-3 teeth in the smile zone with a corresponding bite (easy to manufacture, the total cost is less);
- Indirect - in other cases.
By type of material
- Ligature - minimal rigidity, high shock absorption, the load is distributed evenly;
- Adhesive – good adhesion to the coronal part of the tooth, fixation is more rigid than with ligature splinting, the load on elements with damaged periodontium is minimized;
- Polymer - uniform load distribution at high rigidity, do not oxidize or destroy under the influence of acids or alkalis, but change volume under sudden temperature changes;
- Reinforced (hard material is used - splinting is done with fiberglass) - a combination of rigidity and plasticity, high shock absorption, mobility is limited within a strict range, sufficient to maintain the bite.
In relation to the fabrics on which they are installed
- Coronal;
- Intracoronal;
- Extracoronal.
Important! Prosthetics is a subtype of splinting if 1 or more healthy teeth are involved. This also applies to crowns. If 1 or more teeth are missing in the block, then prosthetics or permanent crowns are made for the missing tooth.
For what reasons does the dentition become mobile?
Doctors identify many reasons why patients need to be splinted. And these include such types of diseases as:
Periodontitis. The main reason for its appearance is poor oral hygiene, as well as the characteristics of the microflora. A strong build-up of tartar can often stimulate the inflammatory process and loosen teeth. In this case, there is a gradual destruction of the fixing ligament, which connects the tooth to other tissues.
- Periodontal disease. It can be quite easily determined by external examination. The gums become whitish, although any negative sensations and pain are practically not observed. Gradually, the volume of the gums decreases, and bare roots become very noticeable. Due to insufficient supporting tissues, the tooth begins to loosen over time. Periodontal disease is often observed in patients with a weakened body due to systemic diseases or long-term treatment.
- Injury. Problems can begin if a jaw fracture has been recorded.
Other categories of patients are also at risk. If you smoke a lot, neglect advice on regular oral hygiene, or suffer from metabolic disorders, you can develop severe tooth mobility. It also manifests itself due to age or poor nutrition.
Indications and contraindications for splinting
The decision about whether splinting can be performed in a particular case is made by the doctor. It is important that the technique has no contraindications and is effective.
There are several main common indications:
- Severe changes in the position of teeth or loosening due to periodontitis.
- Trauma – fractures of the upper or lower jaw.
- Reducing the volume of gum tissue.
- The gum pockets reach a size of 5 mm.
- Exposed roots.
There are also a number of contraindications for the procedure. Splinting cannot be performed when the patient has caries on the supporting teeth or severely inflamed gums. Also, restrictions are imposed if a person has too sensitive enamel or has a reaction to various materials of the system’s components.
It is also worth preparing for the fact that after splinting you will need to follow the rules of oral hygiene. Here the situation is similar to wearing braces - you will need to carefully monitor how well you brush your teeth.
Clasp prosthesis
This method refers to removable splinting. The clasp prosthesis is represented by a structure that is made in the form of a metal arch with claw-shaped processes and multi-link clasps that fix each tooth individually. The prosthesis also has crowns under which the supporting teeth are installed, this helps protect patients from stress. The specified splinting design is selected for each person individually, based on the condition of the dentition, bite and other related factors.
Among the main advantages are:
- reliable fixation;
- proper load distribution;
- there is no need to grind crowns;
- comfort and convenience compared to many designs;
- durability.
There are also minor drawbacks. Some people feel discomfort in the mouth for the first time after installing dentures; when there is a need to install clasps on the front row, metal crowns do not look very aesthetically pleasing. This type of splinting is also not suitable for those who are extremely missing teeth.
Important! The duration of wearing the clasp construction exceeds 7 years, but experts advise using it as temporary, since there is a risk of bone tissue atrophy. In this case, if it is not possible to restore a loose tooth, it is best to remove it and replace it with a high-quality implant.
What materials are used when splinting a tooth?
The cost and other parameters of tire installation will greatly depend on what materials the system was made from. Let's look at the most common ones:
- Fiberglass thread. Fiberglass splinting of teeth is completed in just one and a half to two hours. You can expect at least three years of active use.
- Aramid fiber. Also in demand when performing splinting. It is valued for its careful attitude towards the enamel - after removal there is no damage left on it.
- Polyethylene. It is valuable because it is well tolerated by the mucous membrane and causes virtually no discomfort when worn even by sensitive people.
- Metal. Classic material for making retainers. Perfectly holds teeth in the desired position.
- Silk. This fiber can also be used; it is gentle on both mucous membranes and enamel, but is characterized by low strength.
- Ceramics. Typically used when permanent prosthetics are planned. Problems may arise due to the fact that the method is quite labor-intensive and expensive.
It is also possible to use metal-ceramics in the process. It is durable and quite affordable.
Materials
Today, dentistry uses different materials as splints, and not only their strength is important, but also aesthetics. The most common:
- Fiberglass;
- silk;
- armid thread;
- ceramics;
- composite;
- polyethylene.
Flexible materials create a durable splinting frame, fixed on the inside of the row. All materials are of increased strength, do not deform, do not shrink, are safe for gums and enamel, and are resistant to moisture and high temperatures. The cost of dental splinting in Moscow depends on the intervention technique, the complexity of the clinical case, and the material.
Benefits of the procedure
This procedure really helps to significantly reduce mobility and reduce stress on the gums. Periodontitis slows down, and restoration of normal chewing ability has a positive effect on the digestive process.
The procedure also has a positive effect on the patient’s personal comfort. The space between his teeth becomes smaller - this removes the psychological pressures that prevent many people from smiling normally.
Modern systems are designed so that you can talk in them calmly. Food restrictions are minimal.
Disadvantages of the method
The main disadvantage is that when installing the tire, you will need to carry out special mechanical processing of the enamel.
It is also worth considering that the product cannot be used by all patients. Much depends on the patient himself. He needs to be attentive to oral hygiene and brush his teeth on time. Otherwise, the risk of caries occurring and developing is very high. Hygiene itself will also become more difficult.
When installing a tire, you need to remember the adaptation process. During the first few days, there may be severe tooth sensitivity to sour, hot and cold foods.
Types of teeth splinting
There are many parameters to classify such a procedure. One of the main ones is location. The tire can be installed in two options:
- Frontal. Usually placed in the gap next to the incisors and canines.
- Lateral. Placed on a group of chewing teeth.
It is also possible to install a special clasp design - it is more expensive, but allows you to use both jaws.
Another difference parameter is the division into permanent and temporary splinting. Typically, a temporary option is indicated when the disease is just beginning to develop and the gums have not become too thin. This type of splinting is also allowed when there are injuries and deformations of the dentition.
An option with permanent splinting is also possible, when long-term stabilization is ensured. When choosing between a clasp prosthesis and permanent splinting, many patients prefer the first option because it is more aesthetically pleasing.
As the name implies, temporary and permanent structures differ in terms of wearing time:
- Temporary. Typically used between a few days and several months. This option allows you to correctly distribute the load and prevents serious damage to the mucous membrane. The design itself is quite simple, so it can be easily put on and taken off. Depending on the patient's current condition, the number of units to be splinted is selected. Common materials used in manufacturing are plastic and metal.
- Permanent. Suitable if you need to fix a tooth for many years. The advantage is that a truly reliable fixation is created, and the time spent adapting to such a design is greatly reduced.
You need to understand that the process of oral hygiene when using permanent prosthetics will become more difficult. You also need to pay attention that all tasks within the framework of dental treatment must be completed before the splint is installed - then it will be much more difficult.
Differences between organic and inorganic matrix
The organic matrix of tires is subjected to plasma treatment, so this material has improved adhesion. It is impregnated with the composite and allows you to obtain strong single blocks with tape. In turn, tires based on an inorganic matrix do not require additional accessories when working - scissors or gloves, as happens with polyethylene material. They are available in tape and hollow band form, which are suitable for splinting posterior teeth using the groove technique.
Teeth splinting methods
At the first appointment, the dentist assesses the current condition of the oral cavity and takes an x-ray. The task before him is to understand how much the bone tissue has thinned. You also need to determine the degree of tooth mobility, see what condition the bite is in, and whether there are any irregularities or other problems.
The condition of the gums is also of great importance, because it allows you to understand what methods can be used for splinting, what are the risks of irritation or other problems arising.
Installation of a splint is allowed only if there are no contraindications for this and no inflammation is observed. Sanitation of the oral cavity and treatment of caries may also be required. This becomes especially important when the installation of permanent permanent structures is planned.
Splinting using fiberglass
Fiberglass splinting is one of the most common methods. It is usually used when you need to connect several teeth and save as much as possible. The duration of use of one tire does not exceed two years - after this period it will be necessary to install a new one.
The entire installation process does not take more than two hours. First you need to clean the enamel, then create a small groove on it. After this, the fiberglass tape is fixed to the composite materials. After the structure is polished, the doctor is convinced that nothing is bothering the patient, the work is considered completed.
This technique is needed in order to splint teeth in case of periodontal disease. The choice of this method is supported by a high level of strength, good compatibility with dental tissues and affordability.
Screw method
The main material for this splinting is armid thread. This method can be used when a person is injured.
Splinting teeth for jaw fractures and increased mobility allows you to get noticeable results.
The installation process is similar to what has already been described above. First, the enamel is cleaned, then a groove is created. A cord of armid thread is stretched in the recess.
Clasp remedy
This technique refers to methods of permanent prosthetics and is suitable if you need to stabilize the dentition with severe loosening.
The use of modern means makes it possible to prepare abutments and crowns so that large gaps between teeth can be prevented.
Securing crowns
The product is suitable for you if you need to fix four teeth in a row at once. In this case, you will need to install crowns that connect. The installation is the same as in the cases described above. The main difference is the laboratory installation of crowns, as well as their fitting before placing them on permanent cement.
Splinting for periodontitis
This splinting option will be used if there is severe destruction of bone tissue. In this case, you need to apply a splint as quickly as possible in order to qualitatively reduce mobility and prevent further progression of tissue atrophy.
Splinting for injuries
Splinting teeth for fractures is a common practice. In this case, the doctor is tasked with preventing the manifestation of asymmetry. Temporary restorations are often prescribed to restore the correct position of the teeth throughout the recovery period.
Splinting after braces
Sometimes splinting must be used after the patient removes braces. In this case, the tire acts as a retainer. It allows you to prevent tooth displacement, which could lead to spoiling the result of many months of treatment.
Additional recommendations
Regardless of the splinting technique chosen, these recommendations must be followed.
- If a tooth of the 2nd-3rd degree of mobility is to be splinted, strict immobilization is necessary - preparation of a groove to a depth of 1-1.5 mm on the oral surface of the tooth. Teeth of the 1st degree of mobility do not need this.
- When working with lateral teeth, longitudinal grooves on the chewing surface are prepared. This prevents disruption of occlusion and interalveolar distance.
- For splinting with the creation of a groove, it is advisable to use a flagellum instead of a tape.
- Wedges must be used very carefully to protect interdental spaces. Inaccurate wedging is fraught with tooth excursion and the formation of a zone of increased stress on the structure.
- With the help of temporary splinting, single defects can be corrected. To do this, make a tooth from a photocomposite and install it so that the middle part is slightly pushed forward.
- Polyethylene-based tires should not be left exposed to air. Having cut off the required part of the tape, the remainder is packed into a bag and sealed.
- It is necessary to avoid contact of unpolymerized fibers with dust particles, powder, and drops of oil.
- If splinting structures are made in the oral cavity, a rubber dam is applied.
Periodontal splinting is contraindicated if the level of oral hygiene is low. Adaptation of the reinforcing tape in the interproximal space can be performed using a dental probe, fishing line, dental clips or special proprietary devices. A steel wire with a diameter of 0.6 mm is used, which is also used during the retention period of orthodontic treatment.
Make an appointment to install a splint on your teeth
If you have an indication for teeth splinting, make an appointment with our clinic. Clients come to us from different cities - Khimki, Kurkino, Novogorsk and many others.
We guarantee a professional approach from dentists with extensive experience, fast treatment and the use of high-quality materials.
To make an appointment for your first consultation and examination with a dentist, simply leave a request on the website or call us. We will answer your questions and tell you which treatment option is right for your situation. We also provide many other services in the field of medical or aesthetic dentistry.
HOW TO STRENGTHEN MOVABLE TEETH WITH CROWNS
In modern dental practice, various types of dental splinting are offered, differing in indications and effectiveness. One of them involves the use of metal crowns, or their metal-ceramic and metal-free analogues.
The crowns are connected to each other, thereby eliminating mobility. However, in order to perform the procedure, the nerves are removed from the teeth. Therefore, doctors consider all options before settling on grinding teeth for crowns. Let’s not forget that this method is much more expensive.
