[Relationship between transversal joint guidance and buccal curve morphology]

The relationship between the morphology of the curvature of laterotrusion facets and tooth-guided tracings of the mediotrusive condyle path was studied in 20 probands with normal function. The varying inclinations of the dominant laterotrusion facets in cuspid-protected or group-guided occlusion has no bearing on the angle of the mediotrusive paths relative to the horizontal plane. The morphology of the buccal curve allows no predictions as to the direction of the mediotrusive path curvature. Only the movements of the idling condyle were influenced by the type of occlusal guidance. In lateral excursive movements of the mandible with the teeth in contact group-guidance frequently resulted in an upward movement of the laterotrusive condyle and thus to a compression of the intraarticular soft tissues. Although valid conclusions regarding any type of interdependence are impossible unless we are able to measure real tooth and joint movements simultaneously, the results of our study contradict other hypotheses at any rate.