Overview of articulation materials and methods for the prosthodontic patient

Many methods and materials are available for registering the centric relation position, with various degrees of accuracy. Once the centric relation position is recorded, many instruments are available for cast articulation. These articulators range from simple to complex devices that generate different mandibular movements depending on the sophistication of the instrument.

This review evaluated the methods and materials used to record the centric relation position and eccentric maxillomandibular relations, and to compare the articulators available for mounting casts.

A MEDLINE search was completed (from 1966-present) along with personal searches of selected journals to find additional publications that addressed these materials, methods of registration, and available instrumentation.

Potential applications of this review are as follows: (1) to allow the reader to examine the various methods for recording the centric relation position that have been studied and described, and (2) to observe how the accuracy of recording materials have changed over time. The reader will also realize the types of simple and complex articulators that exist, along with the different degrees of simulated mandibular movements that may be accomplished.