Clinical-statistical study on the use of articulators in orthodontic practice

Abstract

Dental-maxillary anomalies are accompanied by changes in the inter basal maxillary ratio in all reference planes, with influences on the functionality of articular structures. These joint changes not detected in time and not included in the treatment plan may worsen while wearing fixed appliances, as orthodontic treatment changes the cranio-mandibular position and causes cranio-mandibular reshaping. The articulator is an instrument that reproduces more or less all mandible movements. TMJ characteristics of skeletal dento-maxillary anomalies, especially class II sagittal pattern mainly reflected in condylar position rather than morphology. TMJ of different vertical patterns differed more in joint spaces, position of condyle and glenoid fossa than in morphologic measurements. Vertical position of glenoid fossa and proportion of posterior condyle increased gradually from hypodivergent to hyperdivergent. Highest glenoid fossa position, maximum ratio of posterior positioned condyle, smallest joint spaces, shallowest glenoid fossa depth, and narrowest condylar long axis diameter were found in skeletal class. The patients with high angle have considerable joint instable factors, and we should especially pay attention when orthodontic treatment is carried out on them. The condyle-fossa position and morphology differ with various vertical facial patterns in individuals with skeletal Class II mandibular retrognathism. These differences could be considered during temporo-mandibular diagnosis and orthodontic treatment