An experimental study of vertical deviations induced by different interocclusal recording materials

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Prosthodontics
• Biomechanical Engineering

Background:

• Accurate mounting of dental casts on an articulator is crucial for successful prosthodontic treatment.
• The choice of recording material can influence the stability and accuracy of interocclusal records.
• Vertical dimension discrepancies can lead to occlusal instability and functional problems in restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate vertical deviations in mounting casts on an articulator.
• To assess the impact of different recording materials on articulator accuracy.
• To compare measurement systems for detecting vertical errors at the occlusal plane and condyle.

Main Methods:

• Five different interocclusal recording materials were tested.
• Records were stored for three time intervals: 30 minutes, 6 hours, and 24 hours.
• Two simultaneous measurement systems were employed to quantify vertical errors at the occlusal plane and condyle.

Main Results:

• Measurements at the articulator's condyle were ineffective in detecting vertical deviations occurring at the occlusal plane.
• None of the five tested recording materials yielded consistently reliable results regarding vertical accuracy.
• Significant variations in accuracy were observed based on the recording material and storage time.

Conclusions:

• Current recording materials may not provide sufficient accuracy for mounting casts on articulators.
• The measurement location (occlusal plane vs. condyle) significantly impacts the detection of vertical errors.
• Further research is needed to develop more stable and reliable interocclusal recording materials for dental articulator use.