Comparative Study Qualitative and Quantitative Techniques in the Study of Occlusion.

Area of Science:

• Dental science
• Biomaterials
• Clinical diagnostics

Background:

• Inconsistent methods for recording occlusal contacts necessitate comparative studies.
• Contradictory data exists regarding the interpretation of occlusal markings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate qualitative and quantitative methods for registering occlusal contacts in static occlusion under laboratory conditions.
• Compare the efficacy of different occlusal indicators.

Main Methods:

• An apparatus for registration of occlusal contacts (AROC) was designed and utilized.
• Occlusal indicators tested included articulating paper (100 µm), articulating foil (12 µm), and T-Scan Novus system (100 µm sensor).
• Statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics, ANOVA, Student's t-test, and Pearson correlation (p < 0.05).

Main Results:

• Articulating paper and foil showed significant differences in the number of contacts registered on specific teeth.
• The T-Scan system indicated a maximum force of 93.72%, with 51.7% on the right and 48.9% on the left dentition.
• Visual determination of contact size, number, and intensity is possible with quality occlusal indicators.

Conclusions:

• The type of occlusal indicator significantly influences occlusal contact registration.
• Articulating foil is recommended for visualizing occlusal contact locations intraorally.
• Combining conventional and quantitative methods is proposed for achieving balanced occlusion in clinical practice.