engleski

Accuracy of Digital Photograph Measurements in Reconstruction of Occlusal Plane Orientation

Purpose The position of occlusal plane should be as close as possible to the position which was previously occupied by the occlusal plane of the natural teeth in order not to change proprioceptive regulatory mechanisms during chewing. The aim of this study was to check the reliability of the measurements of the occlusal plane orientation on digital photographs. The idea was to find out if obtaining and storing such records of dentate subjects in general dental practice office can be used for possible reconstruction of occlusal plane in future if necessary. Methods and Materials The casts of maxillary dental arches of 42 subjects (Angle Class I natural dentition) were mounted in the S.A.M. 2 “ P” articulator through the transfer with a quick mounting face bow. A transparent triangle was placed over the maxillary teeth and contact points between the triangle and the maxillary teeth (frontal and posterior) were marked, which represented the individual’ s occlusal plane (OP). The horizontal distance between the marked points was measured, as well as the vertical distances between the marked points and the articulator’ s horizontal plane (AHP). The distances were transferred to the calibrated paper and the horizontal lines were drawn. The AHP-OP angle was measured to represent the OP inclination. Lateral digital photographs of the same subjects having the Fox plane (FP) positioned over the maxillary teeth and a quick-mounting face bow (FB) positioned were obtained. The inclination between the FP and the FB was measured using the ISSA software. Results There was no significant difference between males and females considering the inclination of the OP. There were no significant differences between the angles measured on the articulator and transffered to the callibrated paper (AHP-OP) and on the digital photograph (FP-FB) (P>.05). Conclusion The described method has revealed no significant difference of the OP orientation between the mounted maxillary casts and the articulator’ s horizontal plane and the FP and FB on the digital photograph. Obtaining and storing digital photographs (with a subject clenching a Fox plane and a face bow positioned) in each general clinical practice may be helpful in possible reconstructive treatment one day if necessary.

digital photography; accuracy

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