An unusual appliance: detrimental occlusal consequences of a lack of clinical monitoring

Removable appliances of various designs have been advocated for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders and bruxism. The COVID-19 pandemic decreased the number of clinical examinations undertaken by dentists worldwide, leading to patients seeking solutions to orofacial pain independently of clinicians. Unexpected complications can arise when the design of an appliance does not carefully consider potential occlusal changes that could occur, particularly when there is a lack of clinical monitoring undertaken.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Poorly designed removable appliances can have an impact on a patient's occlusion, especially without regular monitoring.