Basic Concepts in Occlusion (3)

4. Patient examination

a.  medical, dental and social history

b. extra-oral examinations: facial profile, muscles, joints, speech

c.  intra-oral examinations: muscles, soft tissues, teeth, gum, occlusal relationships and contacts

d. radiographic examinations

e.  special tests: e.g. vitality tests, dietary analysis

f.   diagnostic study casts and occlusal analysis

5. Instruments needed for occlusion examinations

a.  articulating papers and holders, different colours

b. shimstock with mosquito forceps

c.  leaf gauge

d. alginate impressions of the upper and lower jaws

e.  face bow records

f.   occlusal records

6. Methods of reproducing the occlusal contacts and movements

a.  by hand

b. single hinge cast holder

c.  articulators

7. Articulators

·   Definition: a mechanical device which attempts to simulate the movements of the mandible.

·    Two designs: ARCON (ARticulated CONdyle, i.e.: the condylar part is attached to the lower member of the articulator) or NON-ARCON.

·         Types:

a.  Non adjustable articulator: predetermined values, e.g. Free-plane

b. Semi-adjustable articulator:

non-arcon type: Dentatus

arcon type: Denar Mark II, Whipmix

c.  Fully adjustable articulator:

e.g. Stuart articulator, Denar 5A

-used with pantographic tracings

8. Occlusal registration

·         occlusal records (the bite) of the relationship between the upper and lower teeth, taken at ICP or RCP.

·         material commonly used:

a.  air

b. hard wax (Moyco Beauty Wax)+ TempBond

c.  silicon bite registration material

d. fast setting self-cured acrylic (Duralay) either used with a “beading technique” at the chairside or as prefabricated transfer copings

Reference information: www.bjdental.com/

It is not intended as medical advice to any specific person. If you have any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your health, please consult your Dentist for diagnosis and treatment.