[Biomechanically optimized construction of occlusal splints and subjective evaluation by probands]. / Biomechanisch optimierte Aufbissbehelfe-Herstellung und subjektive Bewertung durch Probanden.

In a double blind study twelve class I probands received occlusal splints with six different customized anterior guidances. The subjective feelings were rated using a psychologic scale. It was shown, that splints with a large "a" were better rated than splints with a small "a". "a" is the radius of the maximal curvature of the sagittal anterior tooth curvature. The transition between positive and negative ratings was very sharp and localized at the individual "a". These results suggest that occlusal splints can be optimized by including customized anterior guidances. A detailed technical description of the manufacturing of these splints is given.

[Biophysical properties of the articular disc tissue and their functional evaluation]. / Biophysikalische Gewebseigenschaften des Discus articularis und ihre funktionelle Deutung.

Acoustic methods (measuring the speed of sound) and separate measurements of the density of 10 fresh, unfixed discs at the anterior, central and posterior band were used to determine the module of elasticity. The values of 2634 to 3217 N/mm2 demonstrate the high resistance of the articular disc to elastic deformation. The consequences relating to the function, dysfunction and treatment of internal derangements are discussed.