Condylar path inclination during pro- and mediotrusion in complete denture wearers: literature review and consequences.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to determine the mean values and standard deviations of the temporomandibular motions of edentulous patients and to compare them with those of dentate subjects. METHOD AND MATERIALS: In the context of remounting, the individual terminal hinge axes were analyzed by means of mechanical axiography in 85 complete denture wearers. Subsequently, the condylar paths during pro- and mediotrusion were recorded and measured multiple times. RESULTS: After a 1-mm mandibular protrusion, the sagittal condylar angles relative to the axis orbital plane averaged 38.3 ± 13.4 degrees (9.9-79.5 degrees) on the right and left. After a 5-mm protrusion movement, the inclination was 43.4 ± 10.2 degrees (19.3-74.0 degrees). The Bennett angles were calculated as 40.6 ± 14.4 degrees (7.0-69.1 degrees) after 1 mm and 15.1 ± 7.5 degrees (2.6-32.6 degrees) after 5 mm. CONCLUSION: The sagittal condylar inclinations were somewhat flatter on average in edentulous patients, and the Bennett angles were significantly larger than in dentate subjects. When fabricating complete dentures, mean values for semi-adjustable articulators seem to be generally sufficient.