The combined effects of salivas and occlusal indicators on occlusal contact forces.

BACKGROUND: Some occlusal detection products are designed for use on dry teeth, but this is not always achieved. Others are suited for dry and wet applications.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to assess the combined effects, on occlusal contact forces, of two previously studied affecting variables - occlusal detection products and saliva.

METHODS: We used a full arch dentiform with 3 occlusal detection products (an articulating film, an articulation paper and T-Scan) in combination with human (HS) and an artificial saliva. The maxillary arch assembly, weighing ~54 N (the maximum bite force), was lowered onto (occlusion) and lifted off (disclusion) of the mandibular arch through 10 cycles by a mechanical testing machine. The forces and moments acting on the mandibular arch were continuously recorded by a load cell that supported it.

RESULTS: The maximum values of Flateral (the in-occlusal plane component of the occlusal contact force) were analyzed by occlusion/disclusion separately using one-way ANOVA, with factor for group type to identify the significant effect of salivas on products, effect of products, effect of salivas with products, effect of human saliva. A difference in occlusion and/or in disclusion was considered different. Statistical differences (p < 0.0001) in Flateral were found in: dry product vs. product + HS, dry product vs. product + artificial saliva (with articulating film and T-Scan) and HS vs. product + HS (with articulation paper and T-Scan).

CONCLUSION: All products were affected by the salivas, except articulation paper by artificial saliva. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.