Splinting

Question 1

What is aim of a splint?

Answer 1

To stabilise injured tooth, preventing further damage to pulpal and periodontal tissues while healing occurs

Question 2

What properties do you think an ideal splint should have?

Answer 2

Direct application (no impression or delay for lab work), does not traumatise tooth on application, immobilise tooth in normal position, provide fixation for desired period, allow oral hygiene to be maintained and not predispose to caries, allow vitality testing and endodontic therapy if required, easy to remove, aesthetic, and non toxic, tasteless, stable in oral fluids, cheap etc

Question 3

What are directly applied splints?

Answer 3

Acid etch/resin splint (usually composite), acid etch/resin and twistflex orthodontic (you do not want an active wire), and orthodontic bands and brackets

Question 4

What are indirectly constructed splints (all require a lab stage)?

Answer 4

Acrylic resin (cemented into mouth), acrylic resin (removable), and thermoplastic vinyl (gumshield type)