3D printing has proved out to be useful in a new medical application: bruxism. Bruxism is a medical term that describes a condition in which somebody grinds, gnashes or clenches his/her teeth.
According to experts, although teeth grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety, bruxism often occurs during sleep and is more likely caused by an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth. A sleep disorder such as sleep apnea can also be the cause of this condition.
Glidewell, an organization that provides practitioners with laboratory services, technology and education, has developed the Comfort3D™ Bite Splint, a new occlusal appliance that would offer a more precise fit and increased patient comfort.
With over 4.6 million nightguards produced since 1999, Glidewell has built a certain reputation over the years. The addition of the Comfort3D into Glidewell’s family of bite splints is meant to help dentists provide their patients with a reliable and cost-effective solution that will help prevent damage caused by bruxism and clenching. In addition to protecting healthy dentition from the damage of bruxing, the Comfort3D can also be prescribed to protect most dental restorations, such as veneers, crowns & bridges, implant-supported restorations, and more — an ideal feature for clinicians looking to grow their practice.
According to the company, the 3D-printed process makes Comfort3D stand apart from other bite splints in that it is a cost-effective way to consistently achieve high-quality results with faster turnaround times. When compared to traditional thermoforming techniques, the level of precision achievable with 3D-printing technology results in a more accurate fit for each patient’s unique morphology.
The appliance comes in a clear color and covers the full occlusal plane. It consists of a single-layered 2-mm hard, yet flexible, material that provides durability and bonds with acrylic. For patients, the device is easy to clean and stain-resistant for long-term use. Glidewell’s Comfort3D Bite Splint is digitally designed to ensure your patients are satisfied with better levels of comfort that protect their restorations and prevent further damage from bruxism.
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