An Objective Registration Method for Mandible Alignment

Abstract

This chapter introduces a computer-controlled method for mandible alignment. The exact positioning of the mandible in relation to the maxilla is still one of the great daily challenges in restorative dentistry. Between 1980 and 1991 long-term animal experimentation series about the performance of jaw muscles as well as temporomandibular joints were made at the University of Leipzig, Germany. Until today other studies of similar scale or approach can not be found in international literature. Miniature pigs were exposed to stress under unilateral disturbance of occlusion. Based on that morphological, histochemical and biochemical processings and some other functions were then analyzed. The studies proved that masticatory muscles play a vital role in the positioning of the mandible. Combining these findings with knowledge about support pin registration and the influence of masticatory force on the results of this method a computer-controlled registration method was developed. With the DIR®System exists a final method of measurement which gives objective, reproducible and documentable results.