Module 4 Flashcards
What are some common uses of an occlusal appliance?
Reduction in muscle hyperactivity and pain
Tooth protection during bruxing
Improved stress distribution to the teeth and TMJ
Diagnostic info regarding changes in VDO
Stabilization of mobile teeth
Occlusal appliance definition
Removable appliance which fits over all teeth on the max or man arch
What are the requirements of an occlusal appliance?
Stable
Comfortable
Rigid to occlusal forces
Maintain tooth position within the arch (prevent migration)
What are the two categories of occlusal appliance?
Stabilizaiton
Anterior Repositioning
What do stabilization appliances do?
Muscle relaxation appliance
Eliminates instability between occlusal position and jaw position
Fabricated with condyles in most stable position
What are the uses of a stabilization appliance?
Reduction in muscle hyperactivity and pain
Tooth protection during bruxing
Improved stress distribution to the teeth and TMJ
Diagnostic info regarding changes in VDO
Stabilization of mobile teeth
What are Anterior Repositioning Appliances used for?
Treat TMJ derangement
Guides mandible into a position favoring optimal disc/condylar head relationship
Tx goal is to change the position of the mandible in relationship to the cranium
What happens if Anterior Repositioning Appliances are used for more than one month?
Irreversible changes can occur in the TMJ
Describe a properly fabricated Occlusal Appliance
Demonstrate reasonable retention and stability
Must be stable to digital palapation and when contacting man teeth
Smooth and Polished
Pt should be able to close and feel all teeth contacting evenly and simultaneously
All man buccal cusps should contact a Flat surface with even force
Canine guidance
During protrusive movement, guidance should be provided primarily by canines bilaterally - central and laterals may also contact but not with more force than canines
Proper insertion of occlusal appliance
Figure pressure to align with teeth initially and stabilized using biting force
Proper removal of occlusal appliance
Catch near first molar and pull the posterior downward
Rinse with warm water in the morning if difficult to remove
T/F - Excessive salivation with occlusal appliance is a sign of patholgy
False - it’s normal
T/F - The occlusal appliance should not be brushed
False - brush immediately after removal with water or toothpaste to prevent build up or bad taste
When should a pt wear an occlusal appliance?
Muscle pain on awakening/bruxism - nighttime use is essential
Late afternoon pain associated with stress/fatigue
More continuous use for retrodiscitis
What is the follow-up fir an occlusal appliance?
Pt should return within 1 week
Occlusal marks are re-examined on appliance
As muscle relaxes, the condyle may assume a more superior-anterior position - which may make adjustments necessary
If wearing the appliance causes increased pain, the pt should be instructed to stop wearing the appliance and return to the office
