CLICK HERE to download printable "Cheat Sheet"
Basic NTI-tss Fabrication Protocol
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In the event that incisal overlap is <50%, consider making device on the lower teeth.  Doing so will minimize (practically eliminate) the occurance of a lower canine occluding of the DE (Discluding Element) in aggressive excursive movements.  The fabrication sequence remains the same.  When incisal overlap is in excess of 50%, the use of a lower device tends to overly translate the condyle(s) (by increasing the vertical dimension of occluding in excursive movement).   The above images show the use of the NTI-RV (Reduced Vertical) device to provide for Incisal Guidance.  The NTI-RV is typically used on the upper arch, while the newer IG-NTI is ideal for the lower.

In the majority of cases, the Standard Device's Discluding Element requires reduction, so as to  not excessively increase the vertical dimension of occluding.  The NTI-RV simply reduces the fabrication time by being "pre-sculpted", although all potential  oversights must still be identified and prevented.




a)  b) 
Confirm a Standard  matrix fits passively over the (maxillary or mandibular) incisors (a)
(It may be necessary to relieve the internal of the device to so)
     While holding the matrix in place, have the patient tap on the matrix several times, so that the mandible begins to reprogram.  As the patient gently taps several times, the mandible's path of closure will begin to stabilize and replicate itself. If necessary, position the matrix laterally so that the two opposing central incisors contact the Discluding Element upon closure.  If this ends up being off of the maxillary center, mark the matrix with a pencil line over a landmark (usually the central midline) so that placement during the reline can be easily replicated.  Confirm the the occluding plane of the Discluding Element (DE) is parallel to the maxillary plane, and perpendicular to the lower incisors (b) (some occlusal schemes won't allow for this.  The practitioner may need to relieve the internals of the matrix to come as close as possible, or may elect to place the NTI-tss on the opposite arch).
 
If the patient has a relativley narrow mandibular arch and the NTI device as been adapted to the maxillary incisors, the lower canine(s) may easily occlude on the DE in excursive movement (there is a short distance to travel to get to the midline), thereby perpetuating clenching intensity.  In this event, adapt the NTI device to the mandibular incisors, as in b above.  See also: Excursive clenching.

c) d)(e*

Load the matrix with ethyl-methacrylate (Parkell's SNAP clear and colorless acrylic for temporary crowns works best), in a damp, thick stage (c).  (In a dappen dish, add acrylic powder to 1 to 2 cc's of  liquid monomer, until the powder is no longer being readily  absorbed. Do no stir the mixture, and do not "wet" the matrix with monomer in advance...doing so will allow for shattering of the matrix!.) Remove the matrix with a snapping motion at two minutes (d).  Drop into a cup of hot tap water for 30 seconds for rapid final cure, or let set undisturbed for another 4 or 5 minutes to fully cure.  Trim the internal embrasures with an Exacto knife or finishing bur (e), ensuring to leave enough for a "snap in" and "snap out" retention.
For patients who can not accommodate to the cold cure acrylic, thermoplastic materials (*such as the thermoplastic matrix button) can be substituted, but with some limitations on the sculpting of the final device.
(Now available:  ThermoPlasticBeads are included in the Alternate NTI Trial Kit.  (TPB instructions for use) )

f)g) h)

The finished sculpted and polished NTI-tss (f) will contact the two lower centrals in a functional arc of closure.  In protrusive, the lower incisors will not be able to "get in front" of the DE (g). The lower incisors will not able to "get behind" the DE (or even within 1 millimeter of the anterior or posterior edges.)
Reduce the DE so as the vertical opening in not excessive. 
Please review the oversights (click here).


If the incisors are considerably flared:

Follow normal protocol for adaptation of matrix, without addressing the relationship between the DE and the opposing incisors.  Reshape and add acrylic to the DE to make the occluding surface parallel to the maxillary occlusal plane.  In extreme cases the long axis of the lower incisors may not be perpendicular to the DE.  Doing so would slant the DE in such a way that it would provide resistance to  protrusive movement.  Due to the patient's pre-existing adaptation, there are usually no adverse effects. 
 

DE parallel to maxillary occlusal plane
(see also: Excessive vertical in protrusion)
A general rule-of-thumb is to have the occluding surface of the Discluding Element
parallel with the maxillary occlusal plane...
(the below animation plays for 16 seconds and then repeats).

  
...the above photo on the left was sent by a patient, wondering if her NTI was adjusted properly.
The photo on the right was altered to show a more appropriate alignment.