Computerized occlusal analysis as an alternative occlusal indicator

Abstract

Background: All disciplines of dentistry require that clinicians assess the articulation of the teeth/prosthesis with respect to simultaneous contacts, bite force and timing.

Aims: This article intends to describe the advantages and limitations of the data acquired when using a computerized occlusal analysis as a dynamic occlusal indicator.

Methodology: A search of the literature was completed (Medline, PubMed) using the keywords occlusion, occlusal registration, computerized occlusal analysis and T-Scan for dental.

Results: According to the evidence available, the computerized occlusal analysis system is the only occlusal indicator that demonstrates the ability to provide quantifiable force and time variance in a real-time window from the initial tooth contact into maximum intercuspation.

Conclusion: The reported advantages to accurately indicate occlusal contacts make the computerized occlusal analysis system a better occlusal indicator when compared with other non-digital convention indicator materials available.

Keywords:

• Occlusion
• Occlusal registration
• Computerized occlusal analysis
• T-Scan for dental

Acknowledgements

To Tessa Brown and Brad MacDonald, McGill English PhD candidates, for assistance with editing.