Efficacy of Digitally fabricated occlusal splints for treatment Temporomandibular disorders: A randomized controlled trial

Aim: The main objective of this prospective study was to assess the digitally fabricated splints on Treatment of temporomandibular disorders, in terms of pain, mouth opening, and muscle biting force. Materials and methods: A twenty patients with myofascial pain diagnosed in accordance with research diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders RDC/TMD. The patients were randomly divided into two groups the first group was treated by traditional occlusal splints and the second group was treated by Digitally fabricated occlusal splints. All patients will be followed up on specific dates; the first day, two weeks, one, and three months later. Results: Across all variables and time points, no statistically significant differences were observed between the Acrylic and Digital splints. The mean force values for the Acrylic and Digital (3D printed) occlusal splints were assessed across five time points. No statistically significant differences were observed at any stage. Both types of splints showed consistent improvements over suggested period of this study, indicating that they are both effective in treating TMD symptoms. Conclusion: Digitally fabricated occlusal splints are a viable alternative to traditional acrylic splints for TMD treatment, offering equivalent efficacy in pain reduction, enhanced maximum mouth opening (MMO), and improved biting force. Their use could modernize and streamline therapeutic approaches in TMD management.