Radio Cadena Agramonte emisiora de Camagüey
Camagüey, 24 Jun.- The Camagüey native stomatologist Silvia María Díaz Gómez, recognized for her innovative spirit, developed a semi-rigid stamped splint, made under vacuum, for the treatment of patients with bruxism. This mouth support is manufactured using the plastic cover of artificial teeth packaging, an economical and effective solution.
Faced with the limitations imposed by the US government's blockade on the acquisition of imported splints, Dr. Díaz Gómez decided to experiment with plastic sheets, subjecting them to strict safety requirements to ensure they would not harm the health of those affected. Her innovation represents an accessible and safe option for those who need this type of treatment.
Bruxism, the medical term that describes the grinding or clenching of teeth, is a common condition that can occur both during the day and at night. When this happens during the day, a person clenches or grinds their teeth without realizing it, it can cause damage to the dental structure and jaw discomfort.
The specialist, who holds a second degree in dental prosthetics, a Master of Science in emergency dentistry, and a PhD in Science (a degree obtained in Havana), created more than four thousand splints at the Ismael Clark clinic in Camagüey in 2024.
The National Association of Innovators and Rationalizers of the province proposed it, together with two other specialties, one medical and another in the transport sector, to be eligible on behalf of the region for the prize of greatest economic impact that leads this popular movement.
The cover of the packaging, transformed into a ferrule, is manufactured using a process that uses a vacuum modeling device known as Vacuum, which applies electrical resistance to mold the material with precision and safety. (Enrique Atiénzar Rivero/Collaborator of Radio Cadena Agramonte) (Photos of the author and the interviewee)
