Recessed Posterior Occlusal Splints Prevent TMJ Dislocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing occlusal splint systems do not adequately protect the temporomandibular joint from the lever effect caused by clenching of posterior teeth, which can lead to dislocation of the mandibular bone from the upper temporal bone capsule.
Innovation Solution
A set of occlusal splints comprising a maxillary and mandibular splint with anterior and posterior sections, where the posterior sections are recessed to space apart the occlusal faces, preventing the lever effect and protecting the temporomandibular joint, with the splints designed to fit the dental arches and allow for lateral movement while preventing posterior teeth contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the posterior sections of the splints are designed to contact each other, then the occlusal faces provide stable support, but the lever effect causes dislocation of the mandibular bone from the temporomandibular joint
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful contact between posterior occlusal faces is extracted and removed from the system. The posterior sections are recessed relative to the contact plane, creating intentional spacing that eliminates the lever effect while preserving the stabilizing contact at the anterior region.
Solution Approach 2:
The design preemptively counteracts the harmful lever effect by recessing the posterior sections before clenching occurs. This preliminary geometric configuration ensures that even under maximum clenching force, the occlusal faces remain spaced apart and cannot generate the dislocating lever action.
2Reliability
If the posterior sections are spaced apart to prevent the lever effect, then the temporomandibular joint is protected, but the occlusal support is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The splint design applies different geometric qualities to different regions: the anterior section features planar contact surfaces that provide stable occlusal support, while the posterior sections are recessed to eliminate the lever effect. This local differentiation allows simultaneous achievement of joint protection and adequate support.
Solution Approach 2:
The occlusal surface is segmented into functionally distinct zones: an anterior contact zone with planar surfaces for support, and a posterior recessed zone for joint protection. This segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function without compromising the other.
3Reliability
If the splints cover all teeth including posterior teeth, then comprehensive protection is provided, but the lever effect increases joint dislocation risk
Solution Approach 1:
The splint provides comprehensive coverage of all teeth but applies different functional qualities: the anterior and lateral portions have planar contact surfaces for protection and support, while the posterior occlusal faces are recessed to specifically eliminate the lever effect and joint dislocation risk.
4Manufacturing precision
If the contact surfaces are made planar, then stable contact and alignment are achieved, but lateral movement is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The splint geometry is segmented to provide planar contact surfaces in the anterior region for precise alignment, while the recessed posterior sections create clearance that permits lateral movement of the mandible during functional activities.
Data Source
AI summary
A set of occlusal splints includes a maxillary splint engageable over a maxillary superior dental arch of a mouth; and a mandibular splint engageable over a mandibular dental arch of the mouth. Each one of the maxillary splint and the mandibular splint is substantially U-shaped with an anterior section and two posterior sections extending from opposite ends of the anterior section. Each one of the maxillary splint and the mandibular splint has an inner wall surface defining a cavity shaped and configured to encase teeth of the corresponding one of the dental arches and an opposed outer wall surface, the outer wall surface having a contact surface at the anterior section. The maxillary and mandibular splints are operable in a contact configuration, wherein the contact surfaces of the maxillary and mandibular splints are abutted one against the other, and wherein an occlusal face of the posterior sections are spaced apart from one another.