Comparing the Force and Timing Limitations of Traditional Non-Digital Occlusal Indicators to the T-Scan Computerized Occlusal Analysis Technology

Abstract

The traditional occlusal indicators used in dental practice are articulation papers, Shim-stock foils, elastomeric impression materials, and occlusal wax strips. These static dental materials have been widely believed to have occlusal force descriptive capability. However, modern material studies are challenging the widespread belief that occlusal indicator materials can measure differing occlusal force levels. This chapter evaluates the force reporting limitations of these static occlusal indicators, and discusses how clinicians subjectively interpret their appearance characteristics to determine differing occlusal force levels. This chapter then compares these non-digital occlusal indicators to the T-Scan computerized occlusal analysis technology, that records and displays precise, quantifiable, relative occlusal force variances, and occlusal contact timing sequences. This digital data aids the clinician in making a more accurate occlusal analysis, and can guide the clinician in the correction of occlusal contact force and timing abnormalities, thereby eliminating the subjectivity that is inherent with traditional occlusal indicator use. This chapter further details the diagnostic occlusal capabilities of the T-Scan's digital force and timing data, by presenting two separate studies that compared measured closure and excursive occlusal contact force and timing parameters in orthodontic and non-orthodontic young adults. A commentary is included regarding the clinical pitfalls of using maximally invasive, subjective interpretation to choose occlusal contacts for treatment instead of employing minimally invasive, computer-guided occlusal contact selection. This last section clearly illustrates to the reader that both patients and dentists will markedly benefit from the implementation of occlusal measurement technology.