Management of Maxillary or Mandibular Fractures with Model Surgery and Occlusal Splint

ABSTRACT

Maxillary and mandibular fractures account for a large proportion of facial bone fractures. The primary objective in reduction of marillary or mandibular fractures is to return the structures to normal position of function and cosmetic contour, i.e. restoration of normal occlusal relations through proper positioning of the teeth and bony structures. Interdental wiring, intermaxillary fixation, rigid internal fixation or external pin fixation are common methods in the management of jaw fractures, varying with the age of the patient, location or extent of fracture. Malocclusion is not an uncommon complication after management of jaw pacture. We managed 16 patients (13 males, 3 females) of mandibular or maxillary fractures with model surgery and occlusal splint from July 1998 to August 1999. The average age of patients was 27.4 years and the average follow-up period was 6 months. We achieved good occlusal relationship without malunion, nonunion, or loss of teeth. Acrylic occlusal splints are rigid, strong, easily adjusted and repaired, translucent, lightweight and tolerated well by the oral mucosa. It is useful in the maintenance of intermaxillary fixation and in maintaining continuity of the maxillary or mandibular dental arch, as well as providing precise dental alignment during healing. Splints are helpful in managing fractures of the symphysis, parasymphyseal region, body and alveolar ridges of the mandible, sagittal fractures of the hard palate, and severely comminuted mandible fractures.