Finite analysis of temporomandibular joint loading with occlusal splint use

Occlusal splints are commonly used in temporomandibular joint disorder in conjunction with other treatment modalities. Their use in the postoperative setting has not been extensively researched. This study was carried out by creating a computer stereolithography (STL) model to measure stresses on the condyle during clenching and comparing the results between permissive and nonpermissive splints, in addition to no splint use. The results showed maximal stress at the condyle for both splints, but a decreased stress of 14.7 MPa for the nonpermissive splint versus 20.2 MPa for the permissive splint and 23.4 MPa when no splint was used with a bite force of 457 N. These results indicate that the nonpermissive splint may be beneficial in the postoperative setting to decrease stress on the condyle.