A
polycarbonate splint has been presented which offers the advantage of the ability of being bonded and/or wired into place. This new type of
splint offers several advantages over traditional steel
splints. The
splint can be bonded and/or wired to the dental arch; the bonding method can be a time-saver. The
polycarbonate material is readily malleable and does not possess an intrinsic tension or spring usually found in plastics when they are bent or shaped. The
splint is highly esthetic when compared to steel
splints.
Polycarbonate splints are more economical than steel
splints. Molded
plastic surfaces are smoother and are more compatible with the oral mucosal than the stamped steel surfaces. Finally, and most importantly, the patient acceptance of
polycarbonate splints appears to be very good in comparison with steel
splints. The above advantages seem to indicate that the future acceptance of this type of
splint for
maxillofacial injuries will be good, although, it should be understood that
plastic splints are not as strong as steel
splints and may occasionally break after several weeks of use. Breakage, however, may not cause the
splint to become unusable and usually does not occur until after the 4th week of use, if at all.