J Adv Prosthodont.  2009 Nov;1(3):118-123.

Evaluation of proximal contact strength by postural changes

• Kim HS
• Na HJ
• Kim HJ
• Kang DW
• Oh SH

Abstract

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Proper proximal contact is important for maintaining and stabilizing the dental arch. However, the proximal contact strength (PCS) is not a constant value and can be affected by a variety of factors. PURPOSE: This study examined the influences of postural changes on the posterior PCS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twelve adults with a normal occlusion and had not undergone prosthetic treatment or proximal restoration were participated in this study. A metal strip was inserted into the proximal surface and removed at a constant velocity. The contact strength was measured in every contact point between canine to second molar in both arches. The PCSs were obtained initially in the upright position, secondly in the supine position and finally in the upright position again. All measurements were repeated after a 2 hour period. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Friedman test (P < .05). RESULTS: Generally, a decrease in PCS occurred when the posture was changed from the initial upright to supine position, while it increased when the posture was changed from the supine to upright position. A significant change was observed in all areas except for between the canine-first premolar in the maxilla and between the first molarsecond molar in the mandible areas. CONCLUSION: The posterior PCS, which dentists generally believe to be a static feature of occlusion, is affected significantly by posture.

Keyword

Proximal contact strength; Upright position; Supine position

MeSH Terms

Adult
Bicuspid
Dental Arch
Dentists
Humans
Mandible
Maxilla
Molar
Posture
Supine Position

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Measurement of the proximal contact strength between the first molar and second molar in the right side of the mandible.

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  Fig. 2 Diagrammatic presentation of the changes in proximal contact strength (N) in each region of the maxilla according to the postural change.

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  Fig. 3 Diagrammatic presentation of the changes in proximal contact strength (N) in each region of the mandible according to the postural change.

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