Comparison of TMJ angles based on the ARCUSdigma II examination and occlusion records in the Protar 7 articulator

Abstract

Introduction. Prosthetic restorations should be adjusted to the patients’ occlusion and articulation. Traditional and modern articulator and face-bow systems that simulate individual jaw movements are used in the treatment. Aim of the study. The aim of the study was to compare the values of TMJ angles based on the ARCUSdigma examination and wax occlusion records in the Protar 7 articulator. Method. The study was conducted on a group of 20 patients aged 23-30 years with full dentition and normal occlusion. The position of the maxilla was recorded with face-bow ARCUSevo. Every patient was examined using ARCUSdigma II device. Cast models of the maxilla and mandible were made and mounted in Protar 7 articulator. Wax occlusion records were taken in intercuspal, protrusive and laterotrusive positions. On their basis TMJ angles were established in the articulator. The sagittal condylar inclination and Bennett angles relative to the Frankfurt plane obtained using electronic measurement and manual settings in the articulator were compared. Results. Mean values of sagittal condylar inclination angles based on occlusion records in Protar 7 articulator amounted to 56.9° on the left and 53.7° on the right side and the ARCUSdigma respectively 58.8° for the left and 55.6° for the right TMJ. According to occlusion records in articulator average Bennett angles were valued 11.2° (left) and 9.7° (right), while ARCUSdigma 8.5° (left) and 7.3° (right). Conclusions. Mean values of sagittal condylar inclination angles determined by the occlusion records in Protar 7 articulator and obtained in the ARCUSdigma examination were different and higher than the average values. Mean values of Bennett angles obtained in an ARCUSdigma examination were lower than using occlusion records in Protar 7 articulator and lower than the average values.