Reduction and fixation of jaw fractures using acrylic splints.

This paper proposes the criteria for application of acrylic splints in the treatment of various types of maxillofacial fractures. These were based mainly on the number of remaining teeth that are important for the restoration of occlusion. The acrylic splints studied consisted of intermaxillary, lingual and labiolingual types that hold a dental arch and a cap type that covers a dental arch. It was found that the intermaxillary type was best indicated for the loss of multiple teeth, the lingual type for the predicted intraversion of bone fragments and the labiolingual as well as cap types for the deciduous or mixed dentition. Clinical application based on the above standard, which was attempted in our 60 patients, produced successful results. In addition, the usefulness of these acrylic splints as an intraoral apparatus was discussed.