An overview of the digital occlusion technologies: Intraoral scanners, jaw tracking systems, and computerized occlusal analysis devices

Abstract

Objectives Within the development of digital technologies, dental professionals aim to integrate virtual diagnostic articulated casts obtained by using intraoral scanners (IOSs), the mandibular motion of the patient recorded by using an optical jaw tracking system, and the information provided by computerized occlusal analysis systems. This article describes the various digital technologies available for obtaining the digital occlusion of a patient and outlines its challenges and limitations. Overview The factors that influence the accuracy of the maxillomandibular relationship of diagnostic casts obtained by using IOSs are reviewed, as well as the occurrence of occlusal collisions or mesh interpenetrations. Different jaw tracking systems with varying digital technologies including ultrasonic systems, photometric devices, and artificial intelligence algorithms are reviewed. Computerized occlusal analysis systems for detecting occlusal contacts in a time sequential manner with the pressure distribution on the occlusal surfaces are reviewed. Conclusions Digital technologies provide powerful diagnostic and design tools for prosthodontic care. However, the accuracy of these digital technologies for acquiring and analyzing the static and dynamic occlusion need to be further analyzed. Clinical Significance Efficiently implementing digital technologies into dental practice requires an understanding of the limitations and state of current development of the digital acquisition methods for digitizing the static and dynamic occlusion of a patient by using IOSs, digital jaw trackers, and computerized occlusal analysis devices.

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