Splinting
Definition: a periodontal procedure used to join together loose teeth. The teeth might become loose and mobile as a result of losing the supporting bone around them (due to periodontal disease), trauma, pathologic tooth migration (drifting teeth) and traumatic occlusion (heavy biting forces).
How does it work?
The procedure starts only after the teeth and the gums have been appropriately cleared, and any bacterial disease of the mouth has been treated.
There are several teeth splinting methods to treat loose teeth:
- Extracoronal splinting - the procedure involves attaching the splinting material (stabilizing wire, fiber-reinforced ribbon, or another stabilization device) on the inside of the affected teeth in such a way as to fasten them together. Additionally, the doctor might use a bonded white composite filling material to fuse them together.
- Intracoronal splinting involves cutting a channel into the teeth, inserting the stabilizing device inside, and bonding the wire with the white composite filling material. This is followed by the adjustment of the occlusion (bite) so that all teeth bite with the same force and don’t create discomfort.
What are the risks?
- The easier way to develop cavities, as food collects between the splint device;
- Infection;
- Failure of the device attachment;
How to prepare for the procedure?
There is no need for any special preparation other than cleaning your teeth.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure can solve your problem in one session and it might take a couple of hours.
How to recover after the procedure?
- Good oral hygiene is required, especially considering that food collects between the teeth, and the device makes it difficult to clean;
- Avoid eating solid food for a couple of days;
- If the cause of loose teeth is a periodontal disease then you should treat it first;
- Use additional mouthwash and cleaning devices to clean your teeth;
Interested in other periodontal treatments? Our article on Flap with Root Resection can offer some insights.
Get to know about other restorative procedures in our Dental Bridges article.
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