COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT OCCLUSAL INDICATORS IN THE ANALYSIS OF OCCLUSAL CONTACTS: A CLINICAL REPORT
Eli̇f Kılıç Kitiz, Melike Özbaykal, Dr. Sıla Burcu Özer Yağcı, Prof. Duygu Karakış
Gazi University
Introduction
To establish a restoration compatible with stomatognathic system, it's important to adjust occlusal contacts accurately. Occlusal markers are employed to locate and identify occlusal contacts. The accuracy of these markers is crucial for achieving balance and harmony, which is the primary aim of occlusal therapy. There's limited information about the accuracy of these materials. The effectiveness of current occlusal analysis techniques depend on various factors including the thickness, durability, and flexibility of recording materials, as well as oral conditions and clinician's interpretation. Both qualitative ( articulating paper, schim-stock, waxes, silicon impressions) and quantitative methods (photo occlusion, T-scan) are utilized to assess occlusal relationships.
Case Description
In this clinical report, occlusal contacts were analyzed in a 22-year-old dental student with intact dental occlusion. Two different thicknesses of articulation paper, shim-stock, and T-scan were used. Occlusal recordings were obtained at the maximum intercuspal position and maximum bite force. Successively, articulation papers and shim-stock were held with forceps and the patient was instructed to clench their teeth five times each. Standartized intraoral photographs were taken after the application of each material. While the subject remained in the same position, bite recordings were obtained with the T-scan digital occlusal analyzer . Photographs and T-scan recordings were compared.
Discussion
The images of occlusal contacts obtained from the application of four different methods were analyzed comparatively. Although articulation papers are more commonly preferred due to their ease of use and affordability, as their thickness increases, they tend to produce more scattered and dense markings, making it more difficult to detect occlusal contacts. In contrast, T-Scan sensors have a standardized thickness, which is crucial for ensuring consistency in consecutive occlusal evaluations. T-Scan systems not only display occlusal contacts but also provide parameters such as bite timing and forces, offering more precise results than traditional methods and facilitating record storage.