SILICONE MOLAR BLOCK USED AS A FULCRUM IN CONDYLAR SURGERY

The narrowness of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause difficul ty in open reduction and fixation of condylar fracture. The authors de signed a silicone block that acts as a fulcrum to create more space ar ound the TMJ. The block is made of high-quality silicone that is firm, elastic, nontoxic, autoclave tolerant, and harmless to dental tissue. This block has been used successfully in facilitating reduction and f ixation of condylar fractures in 27 patients, and for releasing spasti c muscles during closed reduction in 2 patients with prolonged TMJ dis location, In edentulous patients, the silicone molar block can be used as a mouth opener to facilitate most intraoral procedures without inj ury to the gum.