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Thickness evaluation of articulating papers and foils
João Malta Barbosa1,2,3, Adolf Brian Urtula4,5, Ronaldo Hirata6
1Resident, Jonathan and Maxine Ferencz Advanced Education Program in Prosthodontics, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, New York.
Summary
Accurate measurement of articulating paper and foil thickness is crucial for dental occlusion evaluation. Many manufacturers misrepresent material thickness, potentially impacting diagnostic accuracy in prosthodontic procedures.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Biomaterials
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Articulation and occlusion test materials are essential for evaluating tooth contacts in prosthodontic and restorative dentistry.
- Accurate material properties are vital for reliable clinical assessments of static and dynamic occlusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure the actual thickness of various articulating papers and foils.
- To compare measured thicknesses with manufacturer-reported values.
- To inform clinicians and researchers about potential discrepancies in material specifications.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a precision micrometer (Mitutoyo Series 293) with 0.001 mm resolution.
- Measured the thickness of five articulating papers and six articulation foils.
- Evaluated the suitability of tested materials for natural dentition assessment based on thickness.
Main Results:
- Four of the six articulating foils had thicknesses less than or equal to 21 μm, suitable for natural dentitions.
- Significant discrepancies were found between labeled and actual thicknesses for some articulating papers and foils.
- Manufacturer-reported thicknesses may not accurately reflect the physical properties of these dental materials.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians and researchers must be aware that the actual thickness of articulating papers and foils can differ from manufacturer claims.
- Accurate material selection is critical for precise evaluation of static and dynamic occlusion in dental procedures.
- This study highlights the need for greater transparency and accuracy in the manufacturing of dental occlusion testing materials.
