SPLINTING

The joining of two or more teeth in to a rigid unit by means of fixed or removable device is splinting. Rigid or flexible device that maintains in position a displaced or movable part, also used to keep in place and protect an injured part.

OBJECTIVES OF SPLINTING:

• To provide rest to the supporting tissues
• Preservation of arch integrity
• Restoration of functional stability
• Promote healing and to increase patient’s esthetics, comfort and function
• Stabilise moderate to advanced tooth mobility
• Stabilise teeth with increased tooth mobility interfering with normal masticatory function
• Prevent tipping or drifting of teeth
• Prevent extrusion of unopposed teeth
• Stabilise teeth following acute trauma and orthodontic tooth movement.

TYPES OF SPLINT:

• Temporary splints
• Permanent splints
• Titanium trauma splint
• Cast metal splint
• Composite wire splint
• Composite interlocking splint
• Band-arch wire splintsplint