A comparative assessment of condylar inclination in completely edentulous patients using cone beam computed tomography and Arcus digma II

Abstract

Statement of problemCondylar inclination affects denture fabrication and placement, especially when bilateral balanced occlusion is provided. However, comparisons between radiographic techniques and clinical procedures are lacking. PurposeThe purpose of this clinical study was to investigate the effects of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and Arcus digma II on horizontal condylar inclination and bilateral balanced occlusion. Material and methodsTwelve completely edentulous individuals were provided with complete dentures with teeth in bilateral balanced occlusion. The horizontal condylar angle was measured using CBCT and the Arcus digma II with a 6-mm mandibular protrusion. The CBCT had a real-time 3D image, and the Arcus digma II method recorded mandibular movement using electronic sensors. To evaluate the clinical performance, the horizontal condylar angle was measured using the 2 methods and applied to the semi-adjustable articulator to evaluate the balanced occlusion. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to assess normality, and a paired t test was used to assess the normally distributed data (α=.05). ResultsThe horizontal condylar guidance angle values for both sides of Arcus digma II were significantly higher than from CBCT (P<.05). No difference was found in the clinical performance of balanced occlusion of complete dentures in the 2 methods. ConclusionsThe Arcus digma II method yielded higher horizontal condylar angle measurements than from CBCT. However, no significant difference was found between Arcus digma II and CBCT in terms of the effect on balanced occlusion. Arcus digma II appears to be a reliable technique for measuring the horizontal condylar angle, similar to CBCT, and can be used as an alternative method.