[Effect of interocclusal records on the condylar path of the articulator]

Although there are studies on materials used for interocclusal records, there are no scientific data how the condylar path is influenced by the positional interocclusal records. The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the effects of different interocclusal mediums on condylar inclination of the articulator. The materials selected for this experiment were: two addition type silicone pastes, two silicone putty materials and two waxes. The samples of protrusive records were performed on a Quick-Master semiadjustable articulator (FAG Dentaire). The same pre-established eminentia angles were used during the experiment for each type of materials. To improve the control of the condylar angles a protractor was mounted to the upper member of the articulator at right angels to each condylar fossa housing. A stylus moving simultaneously with the condylar fossa marked the eminentia angle on the protractor. 108 interocclusal records were performed and in 24 hours they were returned to the articulator. Then the articulator was adjusted and the settings of the eminentia angle were recorded. Numerical deviations between the pre-established and the adjusted settings in degrees were subjected to statistical analysis. The results indicated that these deviations for addition type silicones were significantly smaller than that of the other materials. The two waxes proved to be the least accurate materials. It is concluded that the condylar inclination is influenced by the properties of the registration materials, which may increase the shortcomings of the protrusive bite records.