The Bennett angle. Clinical comparison of different recording methods.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomechanics
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Semi-adjustable articulators are commonly used in dentistry for simulating jaw movements.
• Axiography is a precise method for recording mandibular motion, but can be complex.
• Interocclusal records offer a potentially simpler method for capturing jaw relation data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy of Bennett angle measurements using different semi-adjustable articulators and interocclusal recording materials against a reference axiograph.
• To evaluate the efficacy of wax and polyether materials in conjunction with arcon and non-arcon articulators.

Main Methods:

• The Bennett angle was measured in 30 participants using a Quick-Axis axiograph as the reference.
• Measurements were also taken using an arcon Whip-Mix and a non-arcon Dentatus articulator.
• Both wax and polyether interocclusal recording materials were employed with the articulators.

Main Results:

• The Whip-Mix articulator combined with wax yielded results closest to the reference axiograph measurements.
• The Dentatus articulator with polyether recording material showed the most significant deviation from the reference.
• Variations in articulator type and recording material influenced the accuracy of Bennett angle determination.

Conclusions:

• The combination of the Whip-Mix articulator and wax presents a viable and relatively accurate alternative for interocclusal records in dental procedures.
• The choice of articulator and recording material significantly impacts the precision of Bennett angle measurements.
• Further research may explore optimizing these simpler methods for clinical application.