Modified protrusive wax record in recording condylar path angle and ethnic variations

Area of Science:

• Dental Prosthodontics
• Anthropometry
• Biomechanics

Background:

• The Condylar Path Angle (CPA) is vital for programming dental articulators in prosthodontic treatments.
• Existing CPA average values (25˚-35˚) are primarily based on Caucasian populations.
• Investigating CPA variations in diverse ethnic groups is essential for accurate dental treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the Condylar Path Angle (CPA) in Malay subjects.
• To compare Malay CPA measurements with established average values.
• To assess differences between right and left CPA in the study population.

Main Methods:

• Thirty young adult Malay subjects (21-23 years) participated.
• Dental impressions, face-bow transfers, and semi-adjustable articulator mounting were performed.
• The protrusive record method was used to measure the Condylar Path Angle (CPA).

Main Results:

• A significant percentage of Malay subjects exhibited CPAs outside the typical Caucasian range (Right: 57%, Left: 67%).
• No statistically significant difference was found between right and left CPA measurements within the group (p = 0.72).
• A strong linear relationship existed between right and left CPA measurements (p = 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Malay subjects demonstrate distinct ethnic variations in Condylar Path Angle (CPA).
• Standard average CPA values may not be universally applicable, particularly for Malay populations.
• Personalized assessment of CPA is recommended for optimizing dental prostheses programmed with semi-adjustable articulators.