A comparison of protrusive interocclusal records to pantographic tracings

The rationale for recording protrusive mandibular movement is to accurately adjust an articulator. Techniques to record condylar inclination include radiographic interpretation, extraoral tracings, and intraoral recording materials. This study compared the protrusive settings on an articular adjusted by a pantograph to protrusive settings recorded by two intraoral recording materials, one a polyvinyl siloxane material and one a laminated, metalized wax. Pantographs were completed for 20 patients by using a kinematic hinge axis and conventional pantographic techniques. The patients also had three protrusive interocclusal records made with two intraoral registration materials completed and averaged. The average condylar inclination recorded with a pantograph (29.5 degrees) was greater than the recording by either intraoral registration material. Standard deviations ranged from 4.1 degrees to 6.6 degrees. An analysis of variance showed that the condylar inclination recorded by wax was statistically less than recorded with a pantograph. A comparison between the pantograph and the polyvinyl siloxane displayed no statistically significant difference in recording condylar inclination.     

Comparison of condylar guidance setting obtained from a wax record versus an extraoral tracing: a pilot study

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Protrusive condylar angles can be determined by use of wax protrusive records (WPR), pantographic tracings (PT), and occlusal wear facets. These methods generate different angles in the same patient. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the condylar inclination angles found by use of the WPR in a Hanau articulator with those found by use of the Whip-Mix PT quick-set recorder. The occlusal wear facet method was not part of this study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ten subjects were chosen at random from a dental school patient population. All subjects had a majority of maxillary and mandibular teeth present and according to the examination criteria used in the school's Division of Occlusion, they were healthy with no signs/symptoms of temporomandibular disorders. The WPR was accepted when it was evident that the patient had protruded straight forward at least 6 mm anterior to centric relation, as shown on the Hanau articulator by the condylar spheres having moved anteriorly an equal distance of 6 mm on both sides. The condylar inclination on the articulator was adjusted accordingly. The PT was used according to the manufacturer's directions, which included the use of an intraoral clutch adapted to the mandibular arch, connected to an extraoral facebow with bilateral inscribing pointers. A holder frame was adapted to the face with bilateral flags where the inscribing pointers traced the protrusive movement of the jaw. All the readings were in degrees. No control was used in this project. To test whether there was a significant difference between the 2 independent samples, a Mann-Whitney U test was performed (P=.01). RESULTS: The mean results for the WPR were as follow: right side (28.1 degrees, SD 8.94); left side (31.50 degrees, SD 9.73). For the PT, results were: right side (41.10 degrees, SD 7.53); left side (35.5 degrees, SD 6.43). When right and left side protrusive condylar angles were combined, the values were: WPR (29.80 degrees, SD 9.25); PT (38.30 degrees, SD 6.98). The differences on the right condylar values were significant (P=.01). There was no statistical difference on the left side. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that the PT technique yielded greater values for the protrusive condylar inclination than the WPR.     

Analysis of sagittal condylar path inclination in consideration of Fischer's angle

This study investigated the sagittal condylar path during protrusive and lateral excursions by analysing the actually measured jaw movement data and re-evaluated the setting of the sagittal condylar path inclination in consideration of Fischer's angle. Protrusive and lateral excursions of 10 healthy subjects were measured using a three-dimensional mandibular movement analysing system. Condylar path inclinations at the hinge-axis point and the corresponding external point laterally extending from the condyle were evaluated in the sagittal plane. Fischer's angle was defined as the difference between the sagittal condylar inclinations during protrusive and lateral excursions on the non-working side, by keeping the corresponding horizontal distance from the intercuspal position (ICP) equivalent at the incisal point. Analysis was performed at three different magnitudes of excursions, where the incisal point was located at 1, 3 and 5 mm away from the ICP. There was no significant difference in the sagittal condylar path inclination or the Fischer's angle between two condylar reference points. However, they were significantly different across the three different magnitudes of excursions for both condylar reference points, i.e. sagittal condylar path inclination (P = 0.003 for protrusive excursion, and P < 0.001 for lateral excursion respectively; two-way repeated-measures anova), and Fischer's angle (P = 0.013, two-way repeated-measures anova) became smaller as the incisal point became distant from the ICP. Moreover, 3- and 5-mm eccentric positions were included in the 95% CI where Fischer's angle equals zero and were considered to be clinically acceptable to adjust the sagittal condylar inclination on the semiadjustable articulators.     

Effect of interocclusal records on the condylar path of the articulator

Although there are studies on materials used for interocclusal records, there are no scientific data how the condylar path is influenced by the positional interocclusal records. The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the effects of different interocclusal mediums on condylar inclination of the articulator. The materials selected for this experiment were: two addition type silicone pastes, two silicone putty materials and two waxes. The samples of protrusive records were performed on a Quick-Master semiadjustable articulator (FAG Dentaire). The same pre-established eminentia angles were used during the experiment for each type of materials. To improve the control of the condylar angles a protractor was mounted to the upper member of the articulator at right angels to each condylar fossa housing. A stylus moving simultaneously with the condylar fossa marked the eminentia angle on the protractor. 108 interocclusal records were performed and in 24 hours they were returned to the articulator. Then the articulator was adjusted and the settings of the eminentia angle were recorded. Numerical deviations between the pre-established and the adjusted settings in degrees were subjected to statistical analysis. The results indicated that these deviations for addition type silicones were significantly smaller than that of the other materials. The two waxes proved to be the least accurate materials. It is concluded that the condylar inclination is influenced by the properties of the registration materials, which may increase the shortcomings of the protrusive bite records.     

Correlation between facial morphology,mouth opening ability,and condylar movement during opening-closing jaw movements in female adults with normal occlusion

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between parameters of facial morphology, maximal voluntary mouth opening ability, and condylar movements in 21 adult females, aged between 20 and 24 years. The subjects had a normal occlusion without sign or symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Mandibular movements were recorded using an opto-electric jaw movement recording system with six degrees of freedom under a series of maximal mouth opening-closing movements. Maximal jaw opening and coincident condylar movement were measured three-dimensionally. The mean values of the incisor and condylar path were 41.1 +/- 3.5 mm (range 35.6-50.9 mm) and 12.8 +/- 2.8 mm (range 8.1-19.2 mm), respectively. Although the positive correlation between maximal jaw opening and facial morphology was significant, none of the variables significantly differed between the value of the condylar path and facial morphology. The length of the path of maximum incisor movement and the condylar path during mandibular movement also did not correlate. Stepwise multiple regression analysis indicated a positive association between the maximal length of the incisor path and the cephalometric value of mandibular ramus inclination (R2 value was 0.369). The results of this study suggest that facial morphology size has a limited effect on maximal voluntary mandibular opening and condylar movements in normal adult female subjects.     

Measurements of the sagittal condylar inclination: intraindividual variations

Aims: Sagittal condylar inclination is an important parameter during fabrication of prosthetic restorations. Existing data about intraindividual variations of sagittal condylar inclination are scarce. The purpose of this study was to investigate intra- and interindividual variations of the sagittal condylar inclination, depending on the position of the condyle in the temporomandibular joint.

Methodology: The study included 51 subjects with Angle’s Class I occlusion (21–32 years of age, mean 25·1). Measurements were done using an electronic axiograph. After a paraocclusal tray was fixed in the mouth, every subject had to make three protrusive movements, from which the device’s software calculated the mean left and mean right sagittal condylar path. The mean left and right condylar path of each subject was divided into three equal sequences, based on whole condylar path length. Condylar inclination values for the first, second and third movement sequences were calculated.

Results: Results showed significant differences between movement sequences (P<0·05). For the left joint, condylar inclination values in the first condylar movement sequence demonstrated, on the average, 14·4% higher values compared to the second movement sequence, and 39·2% higher values than in the third movement sequence. For the right joint, the first condylar movement sequence demonstrated, on the average, 15·8% higher values compared to the second movement sequence, and 41·5% higher values than the third movement sequence.

Conclusions: Results suggest that condylar movement in the sagittal direction is not uniform. Mean left and mean right condylar inclination values do not necessarily describe the actual condylar path, nor do they give adequate information for articulator setup. Left–right side condylar inclination differences greater than 10° can be considered as normal.     

Axiographic evaluation of mandibular mobility in children with Angle Class-II/2 malocclusion (deep overbite)

Correction of the occlusion in Angle Class-II/2 patients is often more complicated and tedious than in Class-II/1 cases. Reasons given are the more comprehensive remodeling and functional adaptation processes of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) since the articular tuberculum is more strongly developed in deep overbite, and a deep bite leading to a locked occlusion is dominant due to the steeper condylar path. Both characteristics are, however, considered to be the consequence of pronounced incisor retrusion. The present study covered 28 untreated Class-II/2 patients aged 8 to 12 years in whom functional TMJ adaptation to the retroclined maxillary incisors was studied with the help of electronic, 3D axiographic registrations of mandibular movements. Comparison with eugnathic age peers revealed increased mobility in mandibular protrusion and a somewhat steeper condylar path, although the latter was less pronounced than in adult patients. The results corroborate the concept of functional TMJ adaptation to incisor inclination and speak for early uprighting of maxillary incisors.     

Protrusive condyle path in edentulous patients]

The inclinations of condyle path of 32 edentulous patients were measured by taking protrusive relation record at the protrusive positions of 2, 4, 6, and 8 mm. The relations between the condylar shift and the protrusive distance were analysed. It was found that the inclination of condyle path was varied with individual, sex and protrusive distance. The shape of protrusive condyle path was like a section of parabola curved forward and downward. The results demonstrate that a small free gliding area in centric occlusion is necessary in complete dentures to fit the physiological movement of temporomandibular joints. The position of rotation center of protrusive movement requires further study.     

Age Changes in Horizontal Condylar Angle: A Clinical and Cephalometric Study

Determination of condylar inclination is important when restoring the occlusal surfaces of teeth. It is important to know the changing trends in horizontal condylar inclination with age so as to have an idea about the cuspal morphology. Aims and objectives: a) to determine the effect of age changes in horizontal condylar inclination using articulator method and radiographic method (cephalometry) b) to compare the values of horizontal condylar inclination obtained using articulator method with that of cephalometric method c) to ascertain the symmetry of horizontal condylar angle on both right and left side on an articulator. 40 dentulous individuals with Angle’s class I occlusion were selected for the study. They were divided into four groups Group I: 20–29 years, Group II: 30–39 years, Group III: 40–49 years, Group IV: 50–59 years. Horizontal condylar inclination was determined on right and left side for each individual using protrusive interocclusal record in a Dentatus (ARL) semiadjustable articulator. Cephalometric recording was carried out twice on the left side, once in centric occlusion position and then in protrusive position. The two radiographs were superimposed to draw a line connecting the shifting position of condylion on an acetate tracing paper. This line when joined with Frankfurt horizontal plane gives the horizontal condylar inclination. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that there was a significant difference in horizontal condylar angle values in all the four groups which were statistically significant. There is a decrease in horizontal condylar angle values from Group I to Group IV. Horizontal condylar values obtained by articulator method and cephalometric method showed no significant difference for all the four groups tested. When horizontal condylar values obtained on right and left sides of Dentatus articulator were compared there was not much of a significant difference. Horizontal condylar values showed a decreasing trend with increasing age, i.e, as age advances there is a flattening of condylar head. Both articulator and cephalometric method yielded no significantly different values and hence both the methods can be used for determining condylar inclination. The difference in values of horizontal condylar angle on right and left sides were insignificant.     

Condylar Paths during Protrusion in Edentulous Patients: Analysis with Electronic Axiography

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the condylar form, incline, and movement characteristics during protrusive movement in fully edentulous complete denture wearers. The study went on to analyze the occlusal consequences on the setup of artificial posterior teeth and the occlusal grinding phase. Materials and Methods : The study included 60 complete denture wearers (aged 58 to 74 years), who received a new set of complete dentures for this study. The patients did not present signs of muscular or articular pain. Protrusive movements were recorded by a SAM^® electronic axiography system. Results : Condylar paths exhibited fairly specific characteristics in the completely edentulous patients, particularly path forms, which had highly specific patterns. Three condylar path forms were determined: the classic form following a convex curve (41% of cases), a sinusoidal form that flattened out in the first 2 mm before following a convex curve (51%), and a rectilinear path (9%). The mean condylar angles also exhibited specific patterns. The mean started in the first millimeter of protrusive movement, at 32.2°± 14.9°, and then increased in the second millimeter to 40.4°± 11.9°, reaching 44.5°± 9° at 5 mm. Conclusion : During protrusive movement in completely edentulous patients, the condylar path patterns were different than conventionally described patterns. In particular, the sinusoidal form was frequently found, and the incline of the condylar slope was low. These factors need to be taken into account during the final occlusal selective grinding for new sets of complete dentures.     

Condylar bone change and sagittal incisal and condylar paths during mandibular protrusive excursion

This study showed significant differences in sagittal condylar and incisal path angles during mandibular protrusive excursion, as well as flattening of the condylar path related to the existence and type of condylar bone change. Twenty-eight (28) patients with signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders were studied, using a six-degrees-of-freedom measuring device and helical CT. Sagittal incisal and condylar path angles at two mm and three mm condylar path lengths (CPL) were significantly shorter in the bilateral condylar bone change (BBC), compared to the no bone change (NBC) group. Also, NBC incremental sagittal condylar path angles from three to five mm CPL and NBC condylar path curvature at five mm CPL were both significantly larger than in BBC. Comparing types of bone change, incremental sagittal condylar path angles from three to five mm CPL was significantly less in osteophyte than in NBC or erosion groups. Condylar path curvature at five mm CPL was also significantly less in osteophyte than in NBC.     

The influence of anterior guidance and condylar guidance on mandibular protrusive movement

summary This Study reveals the influence of the incisal and condylar guidance on mandibular protrusive movement. The protrusive movements were measured on 54 young adults (27 females, 27 males) using a three-dimensional mandibular movement analysing system. The inclinations of the sagittal paths on the incisor, canine, 1st molar, 2nd molar and condylar points were calculated, and multiple regression analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of the incisal and condylar paths on the path of each tooth quantitatively. The influence of the incisal path on any tooth path was consistently greater than that of the condylar path. The condylar path had a greater influence on the paths of posterior teeth than on the paths of anterior teeth, especially in the female subjects. The influence of the condylar path on the molar paths was twice as great in the female than that in the male subjects. It was concluded that the influence of the incisal and condylar guidance on the protrusive movement path varies according to the kind of tooth and the gender of the subject. These guiding system characteristics were confirmed by morphological analysis.     

解析法分析(牙合)架参数测量误差导致的前伸(牙合)误差

目的:理论计算ARCUSdigma系统测量架参数误差所导致的牙合架前伸牙合误差。方法:通过推导数学公式,建立解析法分析下颌第一磨牙区域前伸误差的方法。并计算ARCUSdigma系统对各前伸髁导斜度、切导斜度设定值的最大、最小和平均测量值所导致的前伸牙合误差。结果:前伸髁导斜度小于30°时,最大、最小和平均测量值导致的咬合误差均小于0.2mm;而切导斜度的最大、最小测量值导致的咬合误差稍大。当切导斜度为80°、前伸髁导斜度达到45°时,测量平均值也会导致较大的前伸误差。结论:采用ARCUSdigma系统获取牙合架参数误差所导致的前伸误差较小。如前伸髁导斜度小于30°,不需多次测量;而前伸切导斜度应取多次测量结果的平均值。对于大于30°前伸髁导斜度、大于70°切导斜度的测量值的采用,则要慎重。     

Axiographic findings in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with and without premolar extractions

Mechanical axiography was performed on 49 (37 female, 12 male) patients prior to orthodontic treatment, after removal of the fixed appliance, and at the end of retention. Twenty-five subjects (mean age 12.8 years) underwent orthodontic treatment without premolar extractions (group 1) and 24 subjects (mean age 13.5 years) with premolar extractions (group 2). The axiographic tracings of the protrusive movements were analysed using a digitizer and specially designed software. A statistically significant increase (P < 0.05) in the values for horizontal condylar inclination (HCI) was found for both groups over the entire observation period. Group 1 showed a higher increase (P < 0.05) between the beginning of treatment and removal of the brackets, and group 2 between bracket removal and the end of retention. At the end of retention, a similar increase in HCI values was found for both groups. Over the observation period, the frequency of pathological axiographic findings decreased, which seems to be a positive effect of orthodontic treatment.     

Effects of changes in articulator settings on generated occlusal tracings. Part I: Condylar inclination and progressive side shift settings

An occlusal scribing device attached to a fully adjustable articulator was used to generate occlusal tracings. The tracings were analyzed to determine the effect changes in progressive side shift and condylar inclination settings had on molar occlusal morphology. The progressive side shift adjustment affected the cusp height and ridge and groove position, primarily in the nonworking excursion. The condylar inclination adjustment affected the cusp heights in the protrusive and nonworking excursion without affecting the working excursion.     

Study of the sagittal condylar path in edentulous patients.

The inclination of the condylar path is a fundamental consideration in the prosthodontic treatment of the totally edentulous patient. The authors studied 55 patients at the University of the Basque Country, making three graphic registrations of the protrusive condylar movement on each side. Three examiners, working independently, used the tangential method to measure the angulation relative to Camper's plane. The results show that angulation varies greatly on each side and from one individual to another. In the treatment of edentulous patients, graphic registering techniques that can determine these variations should be used.     

Recording sagittal condylar angles using a mandibular facebow

summary The aim of this study was to determine the average sagittal condylar inclination angles of dentate subjects using a mandibular facebow with pencil tracing styli, to relate these angles to values assigned to articulators, and to assess the repeatability accuracy of drawing a tangent to a traced curve. The right and left sagittal condylar inclination angles of 103 subjects were recorded using a mandibular facebow with pencil tracing styli which marked a graph card during protrusive excursions. Tangents to the tracings were measured with a protractor allowing assessment of reproducibility. The mean left and right sagittal condylar inclination angles were 32° and 31.5°, respectively, with no significant differences ( P =0.609). Individual right and left measurements within each group showed significant differences ( P = 0.0000). The mean of the tangents drawn through three sagittal condylar angle tracings by 10 operators was 33.3°, and the mean of 10 tangents drawn through the same three tracings by one of the authors was 32.9°, with no significant difference ( P = 0.634). The average sagittal condylar inclination angles found in this study are in agreement with those reported in the literature. In fixed sagittal condylar angle articulators 30° appear to be an appropriate setting. The reproducibility of this method of recording sagittal condylar inclination angles was found to be accurate for the individual operator and between operators.     

Comparative evaluation of sagittal condylar guidance obtained from a clinical method and with cone beam computed tomography in dentate individuals

Statement of problemProgramming semiadjustable and fully adjustable articulators involves time-consuming clinical steps which can be avoided if an accurate radiographic method can accurately determine the condylar guidance angles.PurposeThe purpose of this clinical study was to compare the sagittal condylar guidance in dentate individuals as determined by a clinical method, protrusive interocclusal record, and a radiographic method, cone beam computed tomography. If the methods show a correlation, then cone beam computed tomography can be used as a time-saving method of programming an articulator for patients requiring a cone beam computed tomography scan.Material and methodsA total of 40 participants (20 men and 20 women) within the 20 to 40 years age group were enrolled according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Cone beam computed tomography scans were obtained, and by using an appropriate software program, the sagittal condylar guidance was measured for both sides. A protrusive interocclusal record was obtained by using polyvinyl siloxane material. The maxillary cast of each participant was mounted on a semiadjustable articulator with a facebow transfer, and the mandibular cast was mounted with a maximum intercuspal record. The protrusive record was then transferred to the articulator for programming.ResultsThe right and left sagittal condylar guidance values obtained from both the protrusive interocclusal record and cone beam computed tomography method were comparable, with no significant differences (P>.05). The difference in condylar inclination values for both sexes obtained from both methods for both sides were not statistically different (P>.05). With increasing age, condylar inclination values obtained from both methods tended to decrease. The values for sagittal condylar guidance obtained from both methods (protrusive interocclusal record and cone beam computed tomography) were comparable and correlated.ConclusionsCone beam computed tomography measurement involves stable bony landmarks and can be standardized, whereas clinical methods are time consuming and can provide inaccurate results because of the instability of the materials used to register the maxillomandibular relationship. Thus, cone beam computed tomography can be used to obtain the sagittal horizontal guidance for programming semiadjustable and fully adjustable articulators for patients requiring a cone beam computed tomography scan.     

下颌偏斜患者下颌侧方运动时髁突的运动轨迹特征

目的 通过记录下颌偏斜患者的髁突运动轨迹，研究此类患者髁突运动的规律。方法 下颌偏斜患者31例（男性9例，女性22例），年龄12～26岁，平均18岁。使用CADIAX　Ⅲ型髁突运动轨迹轴图描计仪，记录并通过配对t检验和秩和检验分析患者下颌侧方运动时髁突的运动轨迹，并将其与患者下颌偏斜量进行多元线性回归分析。结果下颌偏斜患者下颌侧方运动时髁突的运动轨迹不对称，偏斜侧的运动位移大于非偏斜侧，差异有统计学意义（P＜0．01）；偏斜侧髁突的水平倾斜度小于非偏斜侧，差异有统计意义（P＜0．01）。随着偏斜量的增加，偏斜侧与非偏斜侧髁突的位移差距也相应增加，非偏斜侧髁突的位移相应减小，差异有统计学意义（P＜0．05）。结论下颌偏斜患者不仅颅面形态不对称，下颌侧方运动时髁突运动轨迹在长度、角度等方面也不对称，其与偏斜量有一定的相关性。     

Selected cephalometric angular norms in Kikuyu children

Fifty-six standardized lateral head radiographs of Kikuyu children, represented equally by sex and aged nine to 15 years, were evaluated to determine norms for six dentoskeletal angles. The mean values obtained for the measured variables in the two sexes were: SNA = 84.4 degrees (+/- 4.0 degrees); SNB = 79.3 degrees (+/- 4.1 degrees); ANB = +5.1 degrees (+/- 2.0 degrees); FMA = 34.0 degrees (+/- 5.1 degrees); IMPA = 96.2 degrees (+/- 5.0 degrees) and 1/1 = 111.6 degrees (+/- 7.7 degrees). Angle SNB was found to be significantly larger in females. A comparison of the means of the cephalometric angles for the Kikuyu children with those of black American children demonstrated a steeper Frankfort-mandibular plane angle and a more acute lower incisor to mandibular plane angle in Kikuyu children. The Kikuyu children were also noted to have a more prognathic maxilla relative to the cranial base and mandible, a greater inclination of the lower incisors to mandibular plane and a more acute interincisal angle when compared to white children. The study emphasizes the need for use of group specific norms for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.