Measuring Devices

Lesson 7

Measuring Devices

II. Read, translate the text and answer the following questions

Measuring Devices

Measuring devices are the integral part of any branch of prosthodontics. Efforts were made and still going on to record the accurate jaw movements in order to make a prosthesis which functions harmoniously and also preserves the remaining tissues, which is a big aim of prosthodontics. They are used in order to diagnose and develop a more predictable treatment plan that results in better efficiency, stability, and patient’s comfort.

Articulator is a temporomandibular joint-like device used to hold models of teeth in the same alignment as a patient’s jaw, allowing an orthodontist to simulate the relationships of the bite in restorative and diagnostic procedures. The articulator’s role is to reproduce the static and dynamic mandible positions with the following applications:

• Occlusion and occlusal pathology study;

• Confection of complete, partial and removable prostheses;

• Making interocclusal devices (trays).

Face Bowis used to measure the relationship of the jaws to the temporomandibular joints. The measurements gained can be used in major restorative procedures and to fabricate dentures. A dental face bow is connected to a dental articulator after the patient’s TMJ measurements have been recorded. The face bow is fitted with a bitefork that is used to attach the

face bow to the upper occlusion rim. The purpose of a face bow is to register the relationship of the patient’s maxillary arch in three planes of space and transfer this information into an articulator that can be adjusted to simulate the patient’s jaw movements.

Alameter is used to measure the distance between the ala of the nose which is the approximate distance from the center of the maxillary canine to the center of the contralateral maxillary canine. The alameter is used to establish the width and the appropriate mold selection of the upper six anterior teeth. This helps aid in tooth selection at the laboratory. When the nose width is measured, the alameter calculates the approximate width of the tooth mold which matches the patient’s physiognomy. The result is a tooth selection which harmonises with the facial appearance of the patient.

Papillameter provides the ideal tool for determining the length of the upper lip and thus the lip closure line.It is used to determine the distance between the incisive papilla and the upper lip at rest. This should be approximately 10mm. The distance between the lip in the smile position to the incisive papilla should be around 5mm.The papillameter is held vertically with the numbers facing the doctor or staff member. The edge of the horizontal projection is placed on the end of the incisal papilla when the lip is relaxed.

 

1. Are measuring devices the integral part of any branch of prosthodontics?

2. What is a big aim of prosthodontics?

3. Why are measuring devices used?

4. Is an articulator or papillameter a temporomandibular joint-like device?

5. The articulator is used to hold models of teeth in the same alignment as a patient’s jaw, isn’t it?

6. What is the purpose of using face bow?

7. Does face bow or articulator simulate the patient’s jaw movements?

8. The alameter calculates the width of the tooth mold, doesn’t it?

9. What measurements does the papillameter provide?