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.
A
rticulator 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 Bow is
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.
Are measuring devices the integral part of any branch of prosthodontics?
What is a big aim of prosthodontics?
Why are measuring devices used?
Is an articulator or papillameter a temporomandibular joint-like device?
The articulator is used to hold models of teeth in the same alignment as a patient’s jaw, isn’t it?
What is the purpose of using face bow?
Does face bow or articulator simulate the patient’s jaw movements?
The alameter calculates the width of the tooth mold, doesn’t it?
What measurements does the papillameter provide?