Simple way to secure an occlusal wafer in patients with compromised dentition

The use of occlusal wafers in orthognathic surgery is very tricky. We propose an alternative using bite planes bonded the day prior to surgery and involving the maxillary first premolar to second molar.Bite planes offer many advantages whether one uses the direct method (when orthodontic preparation produces no posterior non-occlusion greater than 3mm), or the indirect method (in the opposite case or in cases of terminal edentulousness) requiring the use of an articulator. Manufacture and placement of the bite planes are much simpler than with wafers; they shorten the surgical procedure and offer the patient enhanced post-operative comfort and hygiene.