Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new type of dental splint used in a specific type of jaw surgery (single-splint two-jaw orthognathic surgery). Traditional splints used in this surgery didn’t allow surgeons to make adjustments during the operation. The new splint, created using computer design and manufacturing, can be adjusted. The splint has special features that help the surgeon check things like the position of the midline of the face, the level of the teeth, the symmetry of the face, and the position of facial bones during surgery.

In the study, the researchers compared the planned position of the jaw and facial features (using a 3D simulation) to the actual results after surgery. They found that the results were very similar, with minor differences. They also compared the new splint to traditional ones by overlaying images of the two. The differences were small, ranging from 0.18 to 0.31 millimeters.

Patients were happy with the outcomes of their surgeries using this new splint. The researchers conclude that this new splint is good for checking the position of the jaws and the overall look of the face during this type of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the advantage of the new dental splint over traditional ones used in single-splint two-jaw orthognathic surgery?
  2. How did the researchers compare the effectiveness of the new splint to traditional ones?
  3. Were patients satisfied with the outcomes of their surgeries using the new dental splint?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing jaw surgery to discuss the use of a computer-designed and adjustable dental splint with their surgeon. This new splint allows for more precise adjustments during surgery, leading to improved outcomes and overall satisfaction with the results. It can help ensure the planned position of the jaw and facial features align closely with the actual results post-surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for jaw surgery, specifically single-splint two-jaw orthognathic surgery, include those with severe malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth and jaws), facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing or speaking, sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and aesthetic concerns. Orthognathic surgery can help improve the function and appearance of the jaw and face, leading to better overall oral health and quality of life for patients.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a surgeon to discuss the need for jaw surgery and the potential outcomes.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative testing and evaluations to ensure they are a good candidate for surgery.
  3. Surgeon creates a treatment plan and uses computer simulations to plan the surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes jaw surgery with the use of the new adjustable splint.
  5. Surgeon makes adjustments to the splint during the surgery to ensure accurate positioning of the jaws and facial features.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Patient is monitored closely in the immediate postoperative period for any complications.
  2. Patient follows a postoperative care plan, which may include pain management, dietary restrictions, and physical therapy.
  3. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
  4. Patient may undergo additional procedures, such as orthodontic treatment, to further improve the results of the surgery.
  5. Patient experiences improved jaw function and aesthetics following successful healing and recovery from surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Can you explain the specific type of jaw surgery I will be undergoing and why it is necessary?
  2. How will this surgery improve my quality of life or address my concerns about my jaw alignment?
  3. What are the potential risks or complications associated with this surgery?
  4. How long is the recovery process expected to be, and what can I do to help facilitate a smooth recovery?
  5. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments before or after the surgery?
  6. How will my jaw function be affected after the surgery, and will I need any additional therapies or treatments to regain full function?
  7. Will there be any visible scarring or changes to my facial appearance after the surgery?
  8. How will you ensure that the results of the surgery align with my expectations and desired outcomes?
  9. Will I need to follow any specific dietary restrictions or lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  10. How often will I need to follow up with you post-surgery, and what signs should I look out for that may indicate complications?

Reference

Authors: Lo LJ, Niu LS, Liao CH, Lin HH. Journal: Biomed J. 2021 Jun;44(3):353-362. doi: 10.1016/j.bj.2020.03.004. Epub 2021 Jun 16. PMID: 34144940