Patient preference between visible light-cured and heat-cured acrylic splints

Purpose: To compare the advantages/disadvantages concerning patient subjective preferences of splints made with heat-cured acrylic (Splint Resin Polymer) or visible light-cured material. Material and Methods: A questionnaire was developed assessing: comfort, stability, fit, taste, occlusal contacts, lip seal, smoothness, hygiene, color stability, stain resistance, salivation level, gingival irritation, bulkiness and odor. 10 patients already treatment planned to receive splints, were chosen at random from the dental school. Splints made from the two types of materials were delivered to each patient to be used for 3 wks. The material to initially be used was chosen at random and the questionnaire was answered after each 3-wk period. Results: The NacNemar's Chi-square test revealed that there was no statistical difference in patient preference between the two splint materials.