Rationale for stabilization.

1. The subjective separation of the normal and the diseased periodontium for splinting purposes is artificial. With the exception of cases of secondary trauma from occlusion, the diseased periodontium should be treated in the same manner as the normal periodontium with regards to splinting. 2. Retionales for stabilization found to be valid are: I. Prevention of mobility A. Post acute trauma. B. In occlusal therapy. II. Prevention of drifting A. Replacement of missing teeth. B. Postorthodontics. III. In treatment of secondary trauma for occlusion. A. For functional stability. B. With unknown effects on the progression of periodontitis. 3. The relationship of trauma from occlusion and periodontitis is unclear at this time. 4. A need exists for a clinical test correlating histologic signs of trauma from occlusion and clinical findings. 5. Temporary splinting generally is not indicated during the initial or surgical phase of treatment of the periodontal patient, because mobility short of secondary trauma from occlusion does not impair healing.