Sometimes, the traditional way of doing things is far superior to new, flashy methods. However, when it comes to the field of dentistry, it is often better to embrace new technological advancements. One prime example is working with a dental lab that utilizes KeySplint 3D-printed night guards and occlusal splints. In this post, you’ll learn about pitfalls of old fabrication methods and how KeySplint products have completely changed the game for the better.
Problems with Traditional Acrylic Night Guards
Although the need for splints and night guards certainly existed long before contemporary stresses, the global pandemic and economic trouble of recent years have only exacerbated bruxism and TMJ-related issues. As a result, night guards and splints are more important now than ever.
Traditionally, the hard acrylic used to create night guards has to be handmade, or it is thermoformed over the stone model. As you might imagine, this process is labor and time intensive. On top of that, the acrylic material ends up rather brittle, susceptible to cracking or fracturing under the pressures of bruxism.
Benefits for Dental Practices and Patients
In addition to being more cost effective for dental labs, KeySplint 3D-printed night guards have also proven beneficial for the dentists and patients alike. Here are just a few of the ways that treatment has improved and more people have been satisfied with the final product.
Faster Production
Time is money even in dentistry. The sooner dental labs are able to manufacture products for patients, the better, and 3D printing KeySplint night guards has a much more efficient turnaround time than traditional fabrication methods.
More Durable Materials
Unlike hard acrylic night guards, KeySplint night guards consist of a material that can withstand the force of bruxism with less damage to the oral appliance. Also, the material is more flexible, which means it is more comfortable for the patient to wear night after night.
Better Accuracy
In the traditional, handmade manufacturing process, human error may become an issue. In other words, these night guards are more likely to have inaccuracies or fit improperly than 3d printed night guards. KeySplint significantly reduces the potential for these errors and creates a perfect fit based on digital impressions. Again, this results in more comfort for the patient, which reflects positively on the practice.
Although some traditions are worth continuing, but when a more effective method that makes everyone happier with the result comes along, it is worth pursuing. If your dental lab doesn’t currently take advantage of KeySplint 3D printing, they aren’t reaching their full potential and providing you with the best possible products that you and your patients deserve.
About Perfect Impressions
Perfect Impressions was opened in 1986 by Gail Johnson, who is a certified dental technician. Since then, she has gathered a team of skilled technicians who use the most advanced technology in the field, including KeySplint night guards and splints. We accept both digital and traditional impressions have a remake factor of 1 percent. If you have a case you’d like us to manufacture, contact our dental lab in North Texas online here.