Occlusal Splint Removable Partial Dentures for Restoration of Severe Attritional Occlusion Accompanied with Dentition Defect in the Elderly

Objective To investigate the clinical effect of occlusal splint removable partial dentures for restoration of severe attritional occlusion accompanied with dentition defect in the elderly.Methods Severe attritional occlusion accompanied with dentition defect was restored by the transition of plastic dental splint removable partial dentures in 37 elderly patients after restoration design.Patients were reviewed monthly for locating the optimal jaw position.After observation for 3-6 months,the permanent occlusal splint removable partial dentures were prepared for restoration.Then patients were asked a return visit per 6 months.Results Among the 37 patients,13 were restored by the two occlusal reconstruction and 24 were restored by a single occlusal reconstruction.After 2 years of follow-up,vertical distance was restored,chewing function was improved,muscle fatigue disappeared,the face and form and the function of pronunciation recovered well.The restoration did not create damage to oral soft tissue.Conclusion It is necessary for the elderly patients with reduction of occlusal vertical dimension induced by severe attritional occlusion to perform occlusal reconstruction.The permanent occlusal splint removable partial dentures can lead to satisfactory results.