Accuracy Investigation of a Mounting Jig Transfer to an Articulator

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Transferring a maxillomandibular relationship to an articulator is a regular procedure in dentistry. The accuracy of the latest virtual transfer from the virtual maxillomandibular relationship to the physical articulator requires further investigation. This research aims to examine the accuracy of mounting using a mounting jig, thereby potentially enhancing the precision of dental treatments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We employed a patient- specific splint fixed on a metal positioning jig that buckles to the articulator. The splint was used to mount the dental stone casts on the articulator. The mounting positional error was assessed by revealing the deviations of virtual markers attached to the scanned physical dentitions. RESULTS: The registration error of virtual transfer was 0.239 mm, ranging from 0.208±0.088 mm to 0.277±0.134 mm. We found no significant differences in dentition between those with and without brackets or metal prostheses during registration. The mounting positional errors in the x-, y-, and z-axes were 0.378, 0.371, and 1.306 mm, respectively. The most significant of the mounting deviations occurred in the vertical direction. The angulation deviations between the maxilla and mandible occlusal planes were 0.865 and 1.018 degrees, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrates that the portable mounting jig generated from the virtual transfer accurately positions an individual's maxillomandibular relationship on an articulator. This finding suggests that the jig could be a valuable tool in various clinical occlusal applications, potentially improving the accuracy and effectiveness of dental treatments.