If you’ve visited one of our facilities, you might be wondering why we have electric frying pans laying all over. They’re usually employed for cooking however, here in Melbourne Hand Rehab we use them to heat thermoplastic Splint sheets that can later be used to create custom surgical splints! When the thermoplastic material unmoulded is put under hot warm water (usually 60 to-70 to) it begins to soften and then becomes flexible. The material that has softened can be precisely molded to accommodate your wrist, hand, or finger.
When would you require a Splint?
Certain conditions or injuries require total or partial rest of ligaments, tendons, joints, and muscles, or connective tissue surrounding the hand. Splinting can be a fantastic method to limit movements in specific regions that must be resting while permitting movement to non-affected body areas. The most common conditions treated with splinting include De Quervain’s Tenosynov and various wrist strains, tendinopathies and sprains, trigger fingers, mallet finger and different fractures.
The main benefits of making use of thermoplastic materials
It is quickly molded to your hand, finger or wrist, then remolded to fit your needs:
The material takes just an hour to heat up before it sets again in 3 to 5 minutes. This makes the creation of splints an easy process that can work into our schedules. Many individuals require splinting if their wrist or hand is affected by inflammation. In many instances, swelling decreases, and splints can begin to feel unsupportive and loose. One of thermoplastic’s beneficial properties is its ability to be easily remolded and eliminates the need to make a new cast or splint to be constructed.
thermoplastic casts are usually more comfortable and comfortable to wear as compared to other casts and splints.
Certain studies have proven that patients who wear thermoplastic splints have greater comfort than those using aluminum and other splints that are pre-made. It’s also lighter than fiberglass or plaster casts. A splint that is comfortable has been proven to improve the satisfaction of those wearing it, which could yield better results of your treatment. Additionally, it is water-resistant so you can take bathing and water activities without worrying about damage to the splint.
Thermoplastic has a strong enough to give a good degree of support to the hand’s structure:
Studies on the strength of thermoplastic splints have demonstrated it is durable enough to give adequate support for various structures in the wrist and hand contrasted with plaster or fibreglass casts. This makes it practical and efficient to meet your requirements
Red: paw patroller
Bonus benefits:
They are available in a variety of trendy shades:
We provide a selection of different colors of thermoplastic and straps for your splint. You have the choice to make your splint an attractive fashion accessory!
The thermoplastic may be washed when it gets dirty
In contrast to the plaster which is known for being prone to deterioration the thermoplastic splints may be cleaned (as long as you’re using the coldest water!)
How to properly clean your Dental Splint Luke, Caloundra Dentist
- Always rinse after every use. Remove the splint from your mouth or night guard as soon as you have removed the mouth. Warm water is the best method to clean any remnants of debris that could be attached to yours.
- Make sure you brush gently with your toothbrush. After you rinse, gently, however, lightly scrub your night guard using your toothbrush. Avoid using toothpaste because it can be very abrasive and could cause wear and tear to the splint.
- It is essential to dry it completely before storing it. Let the splint completely dry by placing it on a flat, clean surface. Don’t put it inside its case while it’s wet to avoid the growth of bacteria.
- Place it in your bag when you’re not using it. Don’t leave your splint in the bathroom, since humidity and steam could alter it over time. Place it in your bag or in a dry, dry location whenever not in use.
- Clean your case. Keep your case tidy also by cleaning it frequently while allowing it completely dry prior to placing your splint into it. You can make use of dishwashing liquid that is mixed with warm water for cleaning your case.
- Clean your teeth every week. Utilize a denture cleanser or a mix of water and mouthwash in order to wash your dental splint for at least 30 minutes but not more than one hour.
