3D Printed vs. Milled Occlusal Splints in Dentistry

Self reported wear comfort by filling in a questionnaire. This scale measures the comfort of the occlusal splint, where "Very uncomfortable" represents the worst experience (lowest score) and "Very comfortable" represents the best experience (highest score). Minimum Value: Very uncomfortable, Maximum Value: Very comfortable. Higher Scores Mean: Better comfort (more comfort)

Two dentists will evaluate the splints outside of the mouth using a standardized assessment form (pre-tested) focussing on stability. The splints will then be placed in the mouth of the subject and reassessed based on the same parameter.

Description: This is a custom-developed 5-point Likert-type scale designed to assess the experience of splint stability. Dentists rate how stable or mobile the occlusal splint feel.

Scale Values:

• = Very unstable / significant movement
• = Unstable / some movement
• = Neutral / no notable instability or discomfort
• = Stable / little to no discomfort
• = Very stable / no movement or discomfort at all Score Range: Minimum = 1, Maximum = 5 Higher scores indicate a better outcome (i.e. greater stability and comfort during wear).

Participants also rate stability on the same way. They rate how stable or mobile the occlusal splint felt during use.

This 5-point Likert-type scale measures the perceived retention (fit and tightness) of the splint when seated on the dental model, used to assess passive fit.

Scale Values:

• = Much too loose
• = Loose, but acceptable
• = Optimal
• = Slightly tight, but acceptable
• = Too tight Score Range: Minimum = 1, Maximum = 5 A score of 3 ("Optimal") indicates the ideal result, where the occlusal splint has a good fit and retention on the model.

Scores 1-2 ("Too loose") and 4-5 ("Too tight") indicate deviations from optimal retention, which may be considered suboptimal and might require adjustment.

A custom 5-point Likert-type scale measuring how well the occlusal splint stays in place during use, based on patient-reported experience. The scale evaluates whether the retention is too loose or too tight, or within acceptable/optimal limits.

Scale Values:

• = Much too loose
• = Loose, but acceptable
• = Optimal
• = Slightly tight, but acceptable
• = Very good Score Range: Minimum = 1, Maximum = 5 Directionality: Higher scores indicate a better outcome (i.e. better retention and patient satisfaction during wear).

This 5-point Likert-type scale evaluates the fit of the occlusal splint both on the dental model and in the patient's mouth. It assesses how well the splint is perceived to conform to the desired shape and fit, both passively on the model and during wear.

Scale Values:

• = Very poor
• = Poor
• = Average
• = Good
• = Very good Score Range: Minimum = 1, Maximum = 5

Directionality:

Higher scores represent better fit (i.e., optimal adaptation and minimal discomfort).

This 5-point Likert-type scale measures how well the patient feels the occlusal splint fits on their teeth. This includes subjective experiences regarding comfort and fit quality.

Scale Values:

• = Very poor fit
• = Poor fit
• = Average fit
• = Good fit
• = Very good fit Score Range: Minimum = 1, Maximum = 5

Directionality:

Higher scores indicate a better fit (i.e., a more comfortable and effective splint).

This 5-point Likert-type scale measures how easy or difficult it is for the patient to keep the occlusal splint clean. It evaluates the patient's experience of cleaning the splint and the effort involved in maintaining its cleanliness.

Scale Values:

• = Very difficult to clean
• = Difficult to clean
• = Neutral
• = Easy to clean
• = Very easy to clean Score Range: Minimum = 1, Maximum = 5

Directionality:

Higher scores indicate that the splint is easier to clean, suggesting better material or design for cleanliness.

Articulating paper is used to check the occlusion. The contact marks of the paper help identify areas of contact between the splint and natural teeth, and the distribution of these contacts is assessed.

• = Very Poor Occlusion. Few or no contacts, or contacts are isolated in a small area, which may create uneven pressure and discomfort.
• = Poor Occlusion. A small number of scattered contacts, or large areas without contact. There are visible areas where the occlusion is uneven.
• = Neutral Occlusion. Contacts are generally evenly distributed but may be slightly uneven in certain areas. Some contact marks, but no clear high spots or excessive force.
• = Good Occlusion Most contacts are evenly distributed. A few areas may show slightly heavier marks but are within an acceptable range comfort and function.
• = Very Good Even pressure across the splint, indicating optimal fit. Higher scores (4-5) indicate better occlusion.