Comparative evaluation of the accuracy of two methods of occlusal registration involving terminal abutments - an invivo study

ABSTRACT

Purpose of the study was to evaluate the accuracy of interocclusal records made in the terminal abutment region by two recording techniques. Ten partially edentulous patients planned for replacement of missing mandibular molars with fixed partial denture were selected. For each patient three sets of articulations were made. Articulation I - Pre operative casts Preoperative maxillary and mandibular casts mounted in an articulator. Measurements were made from the deepest part of the marginal gingiva in the maxillary and mandibular teeth using a travelling microscope. Articulation II - Inter occlusal record with centric stop Complete crown preparation was done for both mesial and distal abutments, preserving the centric stop in the distal abutment. Casts obtained were articulated using an inter occlusal record. Measurements between the maxillary and mandibular casts measured at the same area as the preoperative cast. Articulation III-Inter occlusal record without a centric stop The centric stop retained was reduced to complete the preparation and a third set of cast articulated with another inter occlusal record. Measurements between the maxillary and mandibular casts measured at the same area as the preoperative cast. The values obtained were statically analyzed. Within the limitations of the study, presence of inter occlusal record in both the techniques showed an increase in vertical discrepancy. Clinical Implication Making interocclusal records with vertical stop shows increased vertical discrepancy