New DigiSplint set to revolutionise splint therapy using latest in CAD/CAM

Sydney-based Truline Dental has released the next generation of occlusal splints with their computer-designed and computer-manufactured DigiSplint system. DigiSplints are durable, have a perfect fit and are available in a variety of materials, some standard and some not offered before.

"Traditionally, lab-made splints have many shortcomings, correct fit being one example and this is often due to factors such as material shrinkage and warpage during processing," said Digisplint developer, Terence Whitty. "Manufacturing in the digital domain now solves many of these issues as materials can be machined without these side affects. Digital technology has come a long way in the last few years and now large, complex shapes such as splints are relatively easy to manufacture using CAD/CAM technology."

According to Mr Whitty, any popular splint design is possible and modifiable using the latest in sophisticated CAD design software, making precision designs possible. This new method designs perfect fitting splints every time and occlusal adjustments are minimal if at all when the correct construction bite is supplied with the case.

The doctor has the choice of upper or lower splints and all cases are mounted on the virtual adjustable articulator in the software relative to the optimum construction bite position. The splint is then carefully designed to the prescription instructions and all design elements are incorporated.

Using the latest in milling technologies, the splint is fabricated to exceptional tolerances and can now be manufactured with a better shaping, fit and finish than traditional lab made splints. Materials such as high density PMMA and polycarbonate are used for the new DigiSplint but new materials such as PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) not available previously are also now possible. Clear or tooth-coloured splints are available and Truline’s famous semi-soft thermo lined "Flexion" material is also available as an addition if required.

"DigiSplint works great with intraoral scans (digital impressions), thus making a total optimal digital workflow possible," Mr Whitty said. "Intraoral scans are becoming more popular and are a great alternative to conventional impressions. Immediate feedback is given to the operator of the integrity of the scan and this helps in creating accurate full arch scans.

"The 3Shape Trios scanner is growing in popularity and some of the scans coming from this device are amazing. Digital construction bite registration can also easily be done and sent with models. Other intraoral scanners work very well with DigiSplint as well and of course, traditional impressions can also be used and the results of both methods are remarkable."

All DigiSplints are delivered to the doctor fitted on a virtually indestructible state-of-the-art 16 micron layer 3D printed model so the patient can store the DigiSplint conveniently when not in use meaning you can say goodbye to broken, mouldy plaster models forever.

DigiSplints are very competitively priced.