Significance of T-Scan™ in recording occlusion parameters in orthodontic patients

Abstract

Introduction/Objective. In orthodontics accurate records about occlusal aspects: contacts, forces, loads, the total load force and bilateral force distribution are essential. The aim of this prospective clinical study was to evaluate occlusal parameters in different malocclusions and normal occlusions using the T-Scan III Novus (Tekscan Inc., Boston, MA, USA). Methods. Group of 43 patients, was divided in three types of malocclusions (class I, II, III), normal occlusion. A multi-bite scan was registered, using T-Scan III Novus (Tekscan Inc.). Data was analyzed with T-Scan software v 10 (Tekscan Inc.). The total force on the first molars was analyzed, and average force percentage compared. For bilateral load distribution, we analyzed total forces in the first; fourth versus the second; third quadrant, for each malocclusion, average force was assessed and compared. Results. The first molar’s occlusal load showed that tooth #26 was favored to bear the highest load of all first molars in class II, III, and normal occlusion. In class I malocclusion all molars had similar forces. The highest occlusion force mean on the right side was in class III, and at the left side in class II. The highest discrepancy was in class II, then class III, class I, and the lowest in the normal occlusion. Conclusion. Normal occlusion was the most equilibrated, with the best load distribution, lowest discrepancy and highest force values, while in other classes there was a need for load equilibration and similar force distribution throughout dental arches to minimize discrepancy between left and right side of the jaws.

Keywords

• t-scan
• malocclusion
• occlusal load