Digital manufacturing of occlusal splint: from intraoral scanning to 3D printing

Abstract

Aim Digital technology has greatly improved its accuracy and precision in the last decade and has allowed for a complete digital workflow in several dental applications. The present paper describes the technique used by the authors for the manufacturing of intraoral occlusal splints featuring a digital workflow. Materials and methods The procedure includes an intraoral scan of the maxillary and mandibular arches, registration of vertical relationship, and computer-assisted design (CAD) technology of the occlusal splint and fabrication with a multi-jet 3D printer. Conclusion The presented technique allows for time efficient laboratory manufacturing, which could also be performed chair-side in the dental office. The delivered splint is accurate and precise and could be reproduced anytime if needed.