Condylar guidance: correlation between protrusive interocclusal record and panoramic radiographic image: a pilot...

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomechanics
• Radiology

Background:

• Accurate programming of semi-adjustable articulators is crucial for dental restorations.
• Traditional methods for determining condylar angles include intraoral protrusive records.
• Panoramic radiography offers a non-invasive imaging technique.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare sagittal condylar angles obtained via intraoral protrusive records with those derived from panoramic radiographic images.
• To evaluate the accuracy and applicability of panoramic radiography in setting Hanau articulators.

Main Methods:

• Ten patients with intact dentition and no temporomandibular disorder symptoms were selected.
• Dental casts were mounted on a Hanau articulator using springbow and interocclusal records.
• Protrusive records were obtained, and condylar guidance angles were measured.
• Panoramic radiographs were taken, and condylar angles were measured using specific radiographic landmarks.

Main Results:

• Radiographic measurements of condylar angles were, on average, 4° greater than those from protrusive records.
• No statistically significant differences were found in mean condylar guidance angles between the right and left sides using both methods.
• Comparisons between right-sided and left-sided measurements from both methods were not statistically significant (p=0.071 and p=0.057).

Conclusions:

• Panoramic radiography provides comparable protrusive condylar guidance angles to intraoral protrusive records.
• The findings suggest that panoramic radiographs can be utilized for programming semi-adjustable articulators.
• This method offers a potentially more convenient alternative for determining condylar guidance angles.