What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to improve the fabrication process of occlusal devices by implementing a fully digital workflow.

April 25, 2026Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry0 citationsOpen Access

Fully digital two-stage workflow for occlusal devices: A technique for jaw registration, stability, and design predictability

JOJuliana Gabriela Alves de Oliveira SOSimone Saldanha Ignacio de Oliveira CJCamila Sales Jreige

Key Points

This research aims to improve the fabrication process of occlusal devices by implementing a fully digital workflow.
Developed a two-stage protocol for occlusal device fabrication.
Utilized a leaf gauge for mandibular deprogramming followed by 3D printed guides to ensure consistent positioning.
Assessed clinical efficiency by measuring time for adjustments and setup.
The two-stage digital workflow led to a significant reduction in occlusal adjustment time (p<0.05).
Participants reported higher design predictability and stability with the new approach.
The technique improved reproducibility in capturing mandibular positions.

Abstract

The technique describes a fully digital, 2-step protocol designed to address common challenges in the fabrication of occlusal devices.These concerns include the clinical difficulty of achieving effective mandibular deprogramming and the technical complexity of designing occlusal appliances using a computer-aided design (CAD) software program.The proposed approach involves an initial anterior deprogramming phase using a leaf gauge, followed by the fabrication of a 3-dimensionally (3D) printed anterior guide to assist in capturing a consistent mandibular position.This staged process may support greater design reproducibility and facilitate the clinical installation of the definitive 3D printed device, potentially reducing the time required for occlusal adjustments and follow-up appointments.(

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