Description

Splinting in dentistry refers to the stabilization of mobile or loose teeth by connecting them to adjacent teeth, which distributes chewing forces evenly and promotes healing. Splinting materials primarily include metal and fiber composites, each with specific properties suited for different clinical scenarios. Metal Splinting Usually made with thin stainless steel wires (0.3–0.5 mm diameter), sometimes orthodontic wires or titanium meshes. The wire is bonded to the tooth surfaces using composite resin typically on the facial (front) side. Metal splints are strong and durable, excellent for stabilizing teeth after trauma or periodontal treatment. Can be rigid or semi-rigid depending on wire thickness and bonding technique. Less aesthetic due to metallic appearance but highly reliable in function.​ Fiber Splinting Uses fiber-reinforced composites Fiber splints are bonded with composite resin similar to metal splints but offer better aesthetics since fibers can be tooth-colored or translucent. They are flexible or semi-rigid, providing some physiologic tooth movement which is beneficial for periodontal healing. Preferred for anterior teeth or where aesthetics are a concern. Commercial products include Ribbond®, Fiber-Splint®, and Quartz Splint.​ Per Segment Splinting is often applied per segment, meaning multiple adjacent teeth are joined in a single splinting unit to effectively stabilize at-risk or loose teeth. The length of the segment and number of teeth splinted depend on clinical needs such as the extent of mobility and periodontal support.​ Segment splints distribute functional loads across multiple teeth, reducing pressure on individual teeth and improving prognosis