BACKGROUND:The term decreased occlusal vertical dimension refers to the reduced distance between two anatomical points while the teeth are in a state of occlusion. The development of this situation is about some parafunctional activities of the masticatory system.AIM:To evaluate the value of decreased occlusal vertical dimension in cases with temporomandibular disorder and to follow up the influence of corrective treatment with occlusal splints and definitive prosthetic construction upon the elimination of clinical symptoms.MATERIAL AND METHODS:Eight cases with decreased occlusal vertical dimension accompanied with temporomandibular disorders were treated with an occlusal splint, as part of reversible occlusal treatment. After reducing, or complete elimination of the symptoms related to problems of decreased occlusal vertical dimension, the definitive prosthetic therapy was performed.RESULTS:The mean value of decreased occlusal vertical dimension in our patients is 8.5 mm, and the mean value of therapy time with an occlusal splint in these patients was 3.5 months.CONCLUSION:Occlusal splint is a part of reversible occlusal therapy in cases with decreased occlusal vertical dimension. After reducing the symptoms related to decreased occlusal vertical dimension definitive prosthetic therapy can be done.

BACKGROUND: Porcelain veneers are permanent restorations that combine good aesthetic with functionality by minimal destructive techniques. AIM: This study aimed to investigate the influence of the preparation designs on the fracture localisation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three preparation designs of porcelain veneers fabricated by a method of laying on a fireproof abutment on maxillary central incisor were examined in this in vitro study-feather preparation, bevel preparation and incisal overlap – palatal chamfer. The samples from all three groups were loaded into a universal test machine-TRITECH WF 10056 until damage occurred on the porcelain veneer. Fracture localisation was classified as an incisal, gingival or combination. Data were analysed with statistical programs: STATISTICA 7.1; SPSS 17.0. RESULTS: In feather preparation, as a consequence of the mechanical force, the most common is the incisal localisation (66.7%), followed by the combined (33.3%), while the gingival fracture localisation is not registered. In bevel preparation, the most common fracture localisation is combined (53.6%), followed by incisal (35.7%) and subsequent gingival localisation (10.7%). In incisal overlap (palatal chamfer), combined and gingival localisation of the fracture is equally recorded in 14.3% of the samples, while the incisal is the most common localisation and is registered in 72.4%. CONCLUSION: During the study, a statistically significant dependence was found between the localisation of the occurred changes (incisal, gingival and combination) and the three different types of preparation.

Porcelain veneers present a conservative solution for patients who demand improvement of the shape, position and color of their anterior teeth without the removal of substantial amounts of tooth substance. No-or minimal-preparation veneers associated with enamel preservation offer an excellent results in aesthetic dentistry and become an essential component in creating restorations that are functional and have increased longevity. The current literature was reviewed to search for the most essential parameters which have influence on the long-term success and correct application of porcelain veneers.

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