02 FACE BOWS AND ARTICULATORS

When you lose don’t
lose the lesson

FACE BOWS ANDFACE BOWS AND
ARTICULATORSARTICULATORS
Dr. Amal FathyDr. Amal Fathy
KaddahKaddah
Professor of Prosthodontic,Professor of Prosthodontic,
Faculty of Oral &Dental Medicine,Faculty of Oral &Dental Medicine,
Cairo UniversityCairo University

TerminologyTerminology
OcclusionOcclusion
The act or process of closure or ofThe act or process of closure or of
being closedbeing closed
TheThe static relationshipstatic relationship between thebetween the
incising or masticating surfaces of theincising or masticating surfaces of the
maxillary and mandibular teethmaxillary and mandibular teeth

TerminologyTerminology
ArticulationArticulation
The contactThe contact relationship of maxillaryrelationship of maxillary
and mandibular teeth as they moveand mandibular teeth as they move
against each otheragainst each other
AA dynamic relationshipdynamic relationship of the toothof the tooth
surfaces to their opponents duringsurfaces to their opponents during
movement of the mandible in functionmovement of the mandible in function

Movements within functional rangeMovements within functional range

The border MovementsThe border Movements
Are the outer limits of all excursiveAre the outer limits of all excursive
movements made by the mandible.movements made by the mandible.
All functional movements of the mandibleAll functional movements of the mandible
are confined to the three dimensionalare confined to the three dimensional
envelope of movement contained withinenvelope of movement contained within
these bordersthese borders
They are highly repeatable and useful inThey are highly repeatable and useful in
setting the various articulator.setting the various articulator.

Posselt described the influence of toothPosselt described the influence of tooth
contact on mandibular movements. Hecontact on mandibular movements. He
traced a point on the incisal edge of atraced a point on the incisal edge of a
mandibular incisor. By this tracing, hemandibular incisor. By this tracing, he
came up with what is calledcame up with what is called “Posselt’s“Posselt’s
envelope of motion”.envelope of motion”.
Posselt’s Envelope of Motion

The upper extent of this envelope is aThe upper extent of this envelope is a
product of tooth contact, while theproduct of tooth contact, while the
movements of the mandible along allmovements of the mandible along all
other borders of the envelope andother borders of the envelope and
movements within it are without toothmovements within it are without tooth
contact, and are controlled by the cranio-contact, and are controlled by the cranio-
mandibular articulation (TMJ), and themandibular articulation (TMJ), and the
muscles of mastication.muscles of mastication.
Posselt’s Envelope of Motion

MP
MO
ICP
RCP
HA
MP = Maximal protrusion
ICP = Intercuspal position
RCP= Retruded Contact position
HA = Hinge axis
MO = Maximum opening
EE=edge to edge
Posselt’s Figure

Posselt’s Figure – top edge
RCP
ICP
IG
EE
MP

What is an Articulator?What is an Articulator?
An articulator is aAn articulator is a
mechanical instrumentmechanical instrument
that represents thethat represents the
temporomandibulartemporomandibular
joints and jaws, tojoints and jaws, to
which maxillary andwhich maxillary and
mandibular casts maymandibular casts may
be attached tobe attached to
simulate some or allsimulate some or all
mandibular movements.mandibular movements.

Articulator :Articulator :
A mechanical device, representing the jaws, to whichA mechanical device, representing the jaws, to which
casts may be attached: used in the making of dentures.casts may be attached: used in the making of dentures.

The principle employed in the use ofThe principle employed in the use of
articulators is the mechanical replication ofarticulators is the mechanical replication of
the paths of movement of thethe paths of movement of the
temporomandibular jointstemporomandibular joints
The more nearly the art. Simulate the borderThe more nearly the art. Simulate the border
movements, the more nearly simulate themovements, the more nearly simulate the
posterior determinants of occlusion, theposterior determinants of occlusion, the
more harmonious occlusion, the more themore harmonious occlusion, the more the
TMJ will improved.TMJ will improved.

The articulator is a mechanical instrumentThe articulator is a mechanical instrument
designed to simulate the movements of thedesigned to simulate the movements of the
mandibular arch in relation to the maxillarymandibular arch in relation to the maxillary
archarch..
Articulators vary widely in the accuracy withArticulators vary widely in the accuracy with
which they reproduce the movements of thewhich they reproduce the movements of the
mandiblemandible..

A mechanical device, designed toA mechanical device, designed to
hold Mx & Mn dental casts,hold Mx & Mn dental casts,
representing the jaws andrepresenting the jaws and
simulate Mn movement, for studysimulate Mn movement, for study
and restoration of dentaland restoration of dental
relationships.relationships.

According to records accepted andAccording to records accepted and
adjustabilityadjustability
Based on condylar movements it canBased on condylar movements it can
simulate TMJsimulate TMJ
Based on the condylar element locationBased on the condylar element location

Classifications of ArticulatorsClassifications of Articulators
According to records accepted andAccording to records accepted and
adjustabilityadjustability
Based on condylar movements it canBased on condylar movements it can
simulate TMJsimulate TMJ
Based on the condylar element locationBased on the condylar element location

RecordsRecords
Face-bow Record.Face-bow Record.
Interocclusal Record.Interocclusal Record.
Protrusive Record.Protrusive Record.
Lateral Records.Lateral Records.

Articulators
The non-adjustable
articulator
Semi-adjustable
articulator
Fully adjustable
articulator
Arcon
Non-
Arcon
Mean
Value
Hinge
Panto-
graphic
tracing
Sterio-
graphic

TThe movement of these articulators is limited to inaccurate hingehe movement of these articulators is limited to inaccurate hinge opening and closingopening and closing
archs around a fixed axisarchs around a fixed axis..
TThe maximum intercuspation is the only position that can behe maximum intercuspation is the only position that can be reproducedreproduced casts arecasts are
mounted without use of facebowmounted without use of facebow..
NON ADJUSTABLENON ADJUSTABLE
CLASS I : SIMPLE HINGECLASS I : SIMPLE HINGE..
CLASS II: ARBITARY VALUE (PLANE LINE)CLASS II: ARBITARY VALUE (PLANE LINE)
Evolved from class I articulator design, these articulators are capable for lateralEvolved from class I articulator design, these articulators are capable for lateral
movement, some are cabaple of variable location of the horizontal axis of rotation, but allmovement, some are cabaple of variable location of the horizontal axis of rotation, but all
of this type have fixed, arbitrary condylar inclination settings, vertical axes of rotationof this type have fixed, arbitrary condylar inclination settings, vertical axes of rotation
settings, and benett angle. No adjustment of these posterior elements ia available. Somesettings, and benett angle. No adjustment of these posterior elements ia available. Some
have a provision for incisal guidance.have a provision for incisal guidance.
ADJUSTABLEADJUSTABLE
CLASS III: SEMI ADJUSTABLECLASS III: SEMI ADJUSTABLE..
These articulators can simulate lateral, protrusive and Benett movements to varyingThese articulators can simulate lateral, protrusive and Benett movements to varying
degrees. The amount of adjustability incorporated in the design provides the degree ofdegrees. The amount of adjustability incorporated in the design provides the degree of
simulation available.simulation available.
CLASS IV: FULLY ADJUSTABLE ( PROTAR 9 )CLASS IV: FULLY ADJUSTABLE ( PROTAR 9 )

SEMI ADJUSTABLE ARTICULATORSEMI ADJUSTABLE ARTICULATOR
TThis class of articulators is suited forhis class of articulators is suited for
partial and complete removablepartial and complete removable
prostheses, individual crowns, shortprostheses, individual crowns, short
span bridges, and selected quadrantspan bridges, and selected quadrant
restorationsrestorations

SEMI ADJUSTABLE ARTICULATORSEMI ADJUSTABLE ARTICULATOR
TThe condylar path simulating the glenoid fossae arehe condylar path simulating the glenoid fossae are
attached to the lower member of the instrument, whileattached to the lower member of the instrument, while
the condylar elements are placed on the uper portion ofthe condylar elements are placed on the uper portion of
the articulator.the articulator.
ARCON:ARCON:
NONNON ARCON:ARCON:
TThe condylar elements are on the lower member of thehe condylar elements are on the lower member of the
articulator, just as condyles are located on the mandible.articulator, just as condyles are located on the mandible.
The mechanical fossae are placed on the upper memberThe mechanical fossae are placed on the upper member
of the articulator, simulating the position of the glenoidof the articulator, simulating the position of the glenoid
fossae in the skull.fossae in the skull.

ADJUSTABILITY OF ANADJUSTABILITY OF AN
ARTICULATORARTICULATOR
The capability of the articulator toThe capability of the articulator to
closely simulate the movements ofclosely simulate the movements of
the mandible is dependent on thethe mandible is dependent on the
adjustability of the articulatoradjustability of the articulator
elements.elements.

ELEMENTS OF ANELEMENTS OF AN
ARTICULATOR IARTICULATOR I
Horizontal axis of rotation:Horizontal axis of rotation: variability of thevariability of the
position of the horizontal axis of rotation in relationship toposition of the horizontal axis of rotation in relationship to
the maxillary dental castthe maxillary dental cast
Condylar inclination/fossa components:Condylar inclination/fossa components:
variability of the angle of the eminentia, directionalvariability of the angle of the eminentia, directional
guidance of the superior, posterior and medial walls ofguidance of the superior, posterior and medial walls of
the fossa, and ability to simuate laterotrusive movementthe fossa, and ability to simuate laterotrusive movement..

ARTICULATOR IIARTICULATOR II
Intercondylar distanceIntercondylar distance :: adjustability ofadjustability of
the distance between the vertical axis of rotationthe distance between the vertical axis of rotation
Benett angle/benett movementBenett angle/benett movement ::
adjustability of the angle and capability ofadjustability of the angle and capability of
stimuating sideshift movementstimuating sideshift movement
Incisal guidanceIncisal guidance :: adjustability and abilityadjustability and ability
to stimulate the anterior guidance of the naturalto stimulate the anterior guidance of the natural
dentitiondentition..

ARTICULATOR IIIARTICULATOR III
All elements are dependent and variable with theAll elements are dependent and variable with the
type of the articulatortype of the articulator
Articulators of various designs may incorporateArticulators of various designs may incorporate
all or none of the elements dependent on theirall or none of the elements dependent on their
intended use and necessity to fully stimulateintended use and necessity to fully stimulate
mandibular dynamicsmandibular dynamics
These designs vary from the simple hinge-likeThese designs vary from the simple hinge-like
articulator to the more elaborate instrumentsarticulator to the more elaborate instruments
capable of closely stimulate mandibularcapable of closely stimulate mandibular
movementmovement

• Function and Uses of the
Articulators
•Advantages
•Requirements

Use of articulatorsUse of articulators
• Diagnosis (Diagnosis (Mounting dental castsMounting dental casts))
•
slides and occlusal relationshipsslides and occlusal relationships
• Treatment planningTreatment planning
•
Diagnostic wax - upDiagnostic wax - up
•
Occlusal adjustmentOcclusal adjustment
• Fabrication of Splint / ProsthesesFabrication of Splint / Prostheses

Why We Use an Articulator?Why We Use an Articulator?
Allow laboratory procedures.Allow laboratory procedures.
Enhanced access & vision.Enhanced access & vision.
Can be helpful in the teaching andCan be helpful in the teaching and
studying of occlusion and mandibularstudying of occlusion and mandibular
movements.movements.
Correct and modify completedCorrect and modify completed
restorations.restorations.

Why We Use an Articulator?Why We Use an Articulator?

 Prosthetic work is carried out in the absence of the patient.Prosthetic work is carried out in the absence of the patient.
 It simulate but not duplicate all the possible mandibularIt simulate but not duplicate all the possible mandibular
movements.movements.
 Maintain jaw relation record during teeth arrangement.Maintain jaw relation record during teeth arrangement.
 Clinical and laboratory remounting.Clinical and laboratory remounting.
 Articulator generated amalgam stops: The amalgam stopsArticulator generated amalgam stops: The amalgam stops
can be inserted when the teeth are balanced on thecan be inserted when the teeth are balanced on the
articulator before delivery to the patient, to slow andarticulator before delivery to the patient, to slow and
control the wear of lower resin posterior teeth by uppercontrol the wear of lower resin posterior teeth by upper
posterior porcelain teeth.posterior porcelain teeth.

Mounting:
Attaching the
maxillary and or
mandibular cast
to an articulator
or similar
instrument .

Mounting
the Upper
cast by
Face bow
transfer

Mounting the lower cast by Centric Relation Record

Mandible Articulator
Protrusive. The upper arm moves
in a posterior
direction.
Right Lateral The upper arm moves
to left direction.
Left Lateral The upper arm moves
to right direction.
Difference between the movements of the
mandible and the articulator :

Advantages:Advantages:
1.Visualization of patient's occlusion from lingual side.
2.Patient cooperation is not a factor, once the inter
occlusal records are obtained from the patient.
3.Chair time and patient appointment time is saved.
4.The refinement of CO in the mouth is extremely
difficult because of shifting denture bases and
resiliency of the supporting tissues.
5.Saliva, tongue and cheeks are not interfering factors
during using the articulators.

Articulators can simulate, but they cannot duplicate, allArticulators can simulate, but they cannot duplicate, all
possible mandibular movements. (Discuss)!!!possible mandibular movements. (Discuss)!!!

RequirementsRequirements
1. Able to open and close in hinge motion.
2. The articulator must accurately
maintain the correct vertical and horizontal
relationship of the patient's casts
Preserve VDO (incisal pin).
Centric position
3. Rigid , accurate and of non corrosive materials .
4. Minimal weight , not bulky and stable on the bench .
Minimal requirements:Minimal requirements:

RequirementsRequirements
5.Art. design should allow an adequate
distance between the upper and lower
members .
6.Guidance adjustment should be able to
move freely and be accurately secured .
Minimal requirements:Minimal requirements:

Special Requirements
1. The articulator should accept face bow
transfer .
2. The condylar guidance should allow right
lateral, left lateral and protrusive
movements .
3. The incisal guidance should be adjustable
in a sagittal and frontal planes .

Special Requirements
4. The articulator should
have provisions for
adjustment of
intercondylar distance
.
5. The articulator should have provisions
for adjustment of Bennett movement

II-- Classification of ArticulatorsClassification of Articulators
According to which records they accept and the adjustments thatAccording to which records they accept and the adjustments that
can be made to replicate mandibular movements.can be made to replicate mandibular movements.
Non adjustable articulatorsNon adjustable articulators ::
Adjustable condylar path articulators:Adjustable condylar path articulators:
Semi-adjustableSemi-adjustable:: (NON-ARCON or ARCON)(NON-ARCON or ARCON) HANAU articulator.HANAU articulator.
Fully adjustable condylar path articulators:Fully adjustable condylar path articulators: duplicates fullduplicates full
range of mandibular border movements.range of mandibular border movements.
Simple Hinge:Simple Hinge: opening & closing movement.opening & closing movement.
Fixed or mean value condylar path articulatorsFixed or mean value condylar path articulators ::
excursive guidance based on average anatomic valuesexcursive guidance based on average anatomic values
(fixed guide type).(fixed guide type).

They onlyThey only permitpermit vertical movementvertical movement
(simple opening and closing ) .(simple opening and closing ) .
They onlyThey only acceptaccept a single inter-a single inter-
occlusal record (centric occludingocclusal record (centric occluding
relation record ) .relation record ) .
1-Simple Hinge Articulators1-Simple Hinge Articulators

Simple (Non adjustable)Simple (Non adjustable)
Opening & closingOpening & closing
movement (Hinge)movement (Hinge)

Non-adjustable ArticulatorNon-adjustable Articulator
An articulator that doesn’t allowAn articulator that doesn’t allow
adjustments to replicate mandibularadjustments to replicate mandibular
movementsmovements

GariotGariot designed the hingedesigned the hinge
joint articulator aboutjoint articulator about
1805 , it consist of 21805 , it consist of 2
metal frames to whichmetal frames to which
the casts could bethe casts could be
attached and a simpleattached and a simple
hinge to joinhinge to join
Simple Hinge ArticulatorsSimple Hinge Articulators
them and a set of screw in the posterior of the instrumentthem and a set of screw in the posterior of the instrument
to hold the frames in a fixed vertical position.to hold the frames in a fixed vertical position.

Opening & closing movement (Hinge)Opening & closing movement (Hinge)

Bonwill's brass wireBonwill's brass wire
anatomical articulatoranatomical articulator

BonwillBonwill grantedgranted to balanced articulationto balanced articulation
between the teeth. The hinge on the upperbetween the teeth. The hinge on the upper
member is plain enough and the movementsmember is plain enough and the movements
allowed by the springs at either end of theallowed by the springs at either end of the
upper member permit protrusive and a smallupper member permit protrusive and a small
amount of lateral movements. The hinge andamount of lateral movements. The hinge and
condyle assembliescondyle assemblies do notdo not permit any copy ofpermit any copy of
mandibular movements but a start had beenmandibular movements but a start had been
made and the instrument should bemade and the instrument should be
acknowledged for its place in dental history.acknowledged for its place in dental history.

Also there is the adaptable “barn door“ hingeAlso there is the adaptable “barn door“ hinge
with a vertical stop at the end of the upper andwith a vertical stop at the end of the upper and
lower members . Provides a more reliablelower members . Provides a more reliable
instrument than other hinge articulators.instrument than other hinge articulators.

Opening & closingOpening & closing
movement (Hinge)movement (Hinge)
Plain-hingePlain-hinge
articulators. hasarticulators. has
double hinge anddouble hinge and
mean value condylemean value condyle
path.path.

Simple Hinge Articulators
AcceptsAccepts
 Interocclusal recordInterocclusal record
• In some with a double
hinge it may be possible
to use a face-bow
transfer but the space
between the upper and
lower members seldom
permits it

Thus,Thus, a precontact registrationa precontact registration
for mounting the casts willfor mounting the casts will
result in a different occlusalresult in a different occlusal
position than the intercuspalposition than the intercuspal
position in the mouth.position in the mouth.
A single or double hingeA single or double hinge
and casts mounted on itand casts mounted on it
will open and close on anwill open and close on an
arc which does not copyarc which does not copy
the mandibular openingthe mandibular opening
or closing arc.or closing arc.

1.1. The problem thatThe problem that the movements do not follow thethe movements do not follow the
actual intraoral pathways.actual intraoral pathways.
2.2. This disadvantage would result in a state where theThis disadvantage would result in a state where the
lower member would close at a steeper arclower member would close at a steeper arc, than the, than the
actual closing arc existing in the mouth.actual closing arc existing in the mouth.
3.3. This in return would make a finished restorationThis in return would make a finished restoration
exhibitexhibit a centric prematurity,a centric prematurity, at the mesial inclines ofat the mesial inclines of
upper teeth and the distal inclines of the lower,upper teeth and the distal inclines of the lower,
resulting in the deflection or slide of the mandibleresulting in the deflection or slide of the mandible
upon closureupon closure..
4.4. At the same time, becauseAt the same time, because the intercondylarthe intercondylar
distance is by far smallerdistance is by far smaller than that in the skull, athan that in the skull, a
finished restoration fabricated on such an articulatorfinished restoration fabricated on such an articulator
would havewould have a non working side interference.a non working side interference.

There will not be the border movements,There will not be the border movements,
which are usually employed in makingwhich are usually employed in making
laterallateral movements. In themovements. In the protrusiveprotrusive
movement it will be an unlikely piece ofmovement it will be an unlikely piece of
luck if the condyle path is copied.luck if the condyle path is copied.
Deflective cusp interferencesDeflective cusp interferences
will therefore be inevitable inwill therefore be inevitable in
these movementsthese movements..

Disadvantages of Plain-hingeDisadvantages of Plain-hinge
ArticulatorsArticulators
Difference in arcs of closure between the
centers of rotation of the articulator and the
retruded condyle axis
A precontact registration for mounting the casts
will result in a different occlusal position than
the intercuspal position in the mouth
Deflective cusp interferences will therefore be
inevitable in these movements.

What if patient doesn’t matchWhat if patient doesn’t match
articulator?articulator?
Articulator
aha
Patient
maha

Therefore the distance from the condyle to the teeth is crucial
We obtain a measurement of this distance with a facebow

Non-adjustable articulatorNon-adjustable articulator
It is usually a small instrument that isIt is usually a small instrument that is capable of only acapable of only a
hinge opening.hinge opening.
The distance between the teeth & the axis of rotation isThe distance between the teeth & the axis of rotation is
considerably shorter than it is in the patient’s mouthconsiderably shorter than it is in the patient’s mouth
(shorter radius)(shorter radius) with a resultant loss of accuracy.with a resultant loss of accuracy.
Differences between the radius of closure on theDifferences between the radius of closure on the
articulator & the patient’s mouth canarticulator & the patient’s mouth can affect theaffect the
placement of morphological featuresplacement of morphological features such as cusps,such as cusps,
ridges & grooves on the occlusal surface.ridges & grooves on the occlusal surface.
The use of non-adjustable oftenThe use of non-adjustable often leads to restorationsleads to restorations
with occlusal discrepancies in the mouthwith occlusal discrepancies in the mouth..
If discrepancies are left uncorrected, occlusal &If discrepancies are left uncorrected, occlusal &
associatedassociated neuromuscular disordersneuromuscular disorders may resultmay result..

2- Mean value, average or fixed2- Mean value, average or fixed
condylar path articulators:condylar path articulators:
•• Fixed intercondylar distanceFixed intercondylar distance
•• Fixed condylar protrusive path:30Fixed condylar protrusive path:30
•• Fixed Bennet angle:15Fixed Bennet angle:15
•• Adjustable incisal table:0-30Adjustable incisal table:0-30
AcceptsAccepts
Face-bow Record.Face-bow Record.
Interocclusal Record.Interocclusal Record.

In this type ofIn this type of
articulator the upperarticulator the upper
cast can be mountedcast can be mounted
on the upper memberon the upper member
of the articulator with aof the articulator with a
face bowface bow transfer ortransfer or
2-Mean value, average or fixed2-Mean value, average or fixed
condylar path articulators:condylar path articulators:
the mounting is carried out according to thethe mounting is carried out according to the
Bonwill triangleBonwill triangle

BonwillBonwill mentionedmentioned
that the distancethat the distance
between the condylesbetween the condyles
and the distance fromand the distance from
each condyle to theeach condyle to the
contact point of thecontact point of the
lower central incisors,lower central incisors,
is 4 inches ( nearly 10 cm.). Bonwill, thus,is 4 inches ( nearly 10 cm.). Bonwill, thus,
formulated the theory of the equilateral triangleformulated the theory of the equilateral triangle
and designed an articulator to this theory.and designed an articulator to this theory.

4”
4”
BONWILL 1854
2-Mean value, average or fixed2-Mean value, average or fixed
condylar path articulatorscondylar path articulators

the upper end of each post has an inclined groovethe upper end of each post has an inclined groove
representing the condylar path , through which therepresenting the condylar path , through which the
condylar shafts , extending from the upper member arecondylar shafts , extending from the upper member are
located and moved in this groove allowing horizontallocated and moved in this groove allowing horizontal
movement of the upper member.movement of the upper member.
It consists of upper andIt consists of upper and
lower members whichlower members which
are joined by 2 verticalare joined by 2 vertical
posterior postsposterior posts
“Condylar Post Support“Condylar Post Support
"" fixed to the lowerfixed to the lower
membermember wherewhere

Average value (fixed guide type)Average value (fixed guide type)
•• Mounting jig at the level of incisal indicatorMounting jig at the level of incisal indicator
•• Relation of maxillary cast to hinge axis isRelation of maxillary cast to hinge axis is
according to Bonwillaccording to Bonwill

Examples of Fixed or Mean ValueExamples of Fixed or Mean Value
Condylar Path ArticulatorsCondylar Path Articulators
Gysi articulator ,Gysi articulator ,
Arttek Pro-articulator.Arttek Pro-articulator.
Mahdy articulator.Mahdy articulator.

On fixed (and most adjustable) condylar pathOn fixed (and most adjustable) condylar path
articulators the upper members arearticulators the upper members are
movable and the mandibular members aremovable and the mandibular members are
stationarystationary to provide a firm base andto provide a firm base and
facilitate the arrangement of teeth.facilitate the arrangement of teeth. TheThe
fixed condylar path articulators have theirfixed condylar path articulators have their
condyles on the upper member and thecondyles on the upper member and the
condylar guides on the lower member.condylar guides on the lower member.

Gysi “Dreipunkt”Articulator
The fixed c. p. arts. usually have a pointerThe fixed c. p. arts. usually have a pointer
attached to the incisal pin to locate the tips of theattached to the incisal pin to locate the tips of the
central incisors, so that it touches the midline ofcentral incisors, so that it touches the midline of
the occlusion rim labially and thus helps to orientthe occlusion rim labially and thus helps to orient
the cast in relation to the Bonwill trianglethe cast in relation to the Bonwill triangle

Average ValueAverage Value
Gysi Turbyte articulator.

3-3- Adjustable CondylarAdjustable Condylar
Path ArticulatorsPath Articulators
A.Semi - adjustable condylar
path articulators
(NON-ARCON or ARCON )
B. Fully - adjustable condylar
path articulators.

A-A- Semi-adjustableSemi-adjustable
ArticulatorArticulator
Can be programmed to reproduceCan be programmed to reproduce
some MN movement capabilities;some MN movement capabilities;
usuallyusually limited to straight linelimited to straight line
movementsmovements

A. Semi-adjustable ArticulatorA. Semi-adjustable Articulator
An articulator that allows adjustment to replicateAn articulator that allows adjustment to replicate
average mandibular movements.average mandibular movements.
Records For a Semi-adjustable ArticulatorRecords For a Semi-adjustable Articulator
Face-bow recordFace-bow record
Interocclusal recordInterocclusal record
Protrusive recordProtrusive record
Some Art. accept lateral jaw relationSome Art. accept lateral jaw relation
records & I.C. Drecords & I.C. D

A. Semi-adjustable articulatorA. Semi-adjustable articulator
•The condylar elements are
placed on the lower member of
the articulator, just as the
condyles are located in the
mandible.
•The mechanical fossae are
placed on the upper member of
the articulator, simulating the
position of the glenoid fossae in
the skull.
•The condylar paths simulating
the glenoid fossae are attached
to the lower member of the
instrument while the condylar
elements are placed on the
upper portion of the articulator.

A. Semi-adjustable articulatorA. Semi-adjustable articulator
Arcon articulators are widely used forArcon articulators are widely used for
Production of fixed restoration because ofProduction of fixed restoration because of
their accuracy & the ease with which theytheir accuracy & the ease with which they
disassemble to facilitate the occlusal waxing.disassemble to facilitate the occlusal waxing.

Arcon typeArcon type
Where the condylarWhere the condylar
spheres are attachedspheres are attached
to the lowerto the lower
component of thecomponent of the
articulator and thearticulator and the
mechanical fossa aremechanical fossa are
attached to the upperattached to the upper
membrane of themembrane of the
instrument.instrument.
Non-arcon typeNon-arcon type
Where the condylarWhere the condylar
spheres are attachedspheres are attached
to the upperto the upper
component of thecomponent of the
articulator and thearticulator and the
mechanical fossa aremechanical fossa are
attached to the lowerattached to the lower
membrane of themembrane of the

Arcon type .Arcon type .
It is anatomicallyIt is anatomically
correct , so we cancorrect , so we can
understand theunderstand the
mandibularmandibular
movement bettermovement better
Non-ArconNon-Arcon
type .type .
Used in completeUsed in complete
denture prosthesisdenture prosthesis
because the upperbecause the upper
and lower membersand lower members
are rigidly attached ,are rigidly attached ,
permitting easierpermitting easier
control whencontrol when
positioning artificialpositioning artificial
teethteeth ,,

Arcon type .Arcon type .
Constant relationConstant relation
between maxillarybetween maxillary
occlusal plane andocclusal plane and
condylar guidance.condylar guidance.
Inter-occlusal recordInter-occlusal record
when removed willwhen removed will
not change thenot change the
condylarcondylar
inclination.inclination.
Non-ArconNon-Arcon
type .type .
Not constant ,Not constant ,
Inter-occlusal recordInter-occlusal record
when removed willwhen removed will
result in less steepresult in less steep
condylar inclinationcondylar inclination
..

The angle between the occlusal plane and the condylar angle
remains the same when the articulator is opened in the Arcon
articulator. This angle changes in a Non-Arcon Articulator

Semi-adjustable articulatorSemi-adjustable articulator
It is an instrument whose larger size allows a closeIt is an instrument whose larger size allows a close
approximation of the anatomic distance between theapproximation of the anatomic distance between the
axis of rotation & the teeth.axis of rotation & the teeth.
The semi-adjustable articulator reproduces the directionThe semi-adjustable articulator reproduces the direction
& end point but not the intermediate track of some& end point but not the intermediate track of some
condylar movements.condylar movements.
Intercondylar distance are not totally adjustable on semi-Intercondylar distance are not totally adjustable on semi-
adjustable articulators.adjustable articulators.
They can be adjusted to small, medium & largeThey can be adjusted to small, medium & large
configurations in some types of semi-adjustableconfigurations in some types of semi-adjustable
articulators.articulators.
Semi-adjustable articulators can be used for fabricationSemi-adjustable articulators can be used for fabrication
of most single units & fixed partial dentures.of most single units & fixed partial dentures.

Examples:Examples:
• Non arcon typeNon arcon type
• Use formula L=H/8 + 12 to setUse formula L=H/8 + 12 to set
lateral condylar pathlateral condylar path
Hanau model H (Hanau 1923)Hanau model H (Hanau 1923)
Bergstrone Articulator 1950Bergstrone Articulator 1950
•Arcon type articulatorArcon type articulator
•The condylar guides are curvedThe condylar guides are curved

The Hanau
University
series (a) and
The Whip-Mix
articulators are
Examples for
Semi-
adjustable art.
that have
adjustable,
horizontal and lateral Condylar paths, and adjustable
incisal guide tables (C)

DentatusDentatus
Non ArconNon Arcon

Denar II - ArconDenar II - Arcon

Denar IIDenar II
Adjustable Condylar Angle, ISS & PSSAdjustable Condylar Angle, ISS & PSS

Semi-adjustableSemi-adjustable ArticulatorsArticulators
Semi-adjustable
Can alter;
•TMJ to Incisor
distance
•Bennett Angle
•Condylar
Guidance Angle
•Incisal guidance
plate

Semi-adjustable ArticulatorsSemi-adjustable Articulators
•Needs Facebow
recording
•Ideally should be
used for complete
denture cases

RememberRemember
To mount the upper castTo mount the upper cast
““Condylar Post Support " fixed to the lowerCondylar Post Support " fixed to the lower
member.member.
A pointer attached to the incisal pin.A pointer attached to the incisal pin.
Rubber band and plasticine.Rubber band and plasticine.
Orient the cast in relation to the Bonwill triangleOrient the cast in relation to the Bonwill triangle
useuse
Max. facebow.Max. facebow.

RememberRemember
Difference in arcs of closure
between the centers of rotation
of the articulator (aha) and the
retruded condyle axis (maha),
leads to
Deflective cusp interferences that will therefore be
inevitable in these movements.
If discrepancies are left uncorrected, occlusal &If discrepancies are left uncorrected, occlusal &
associatedassociated neuromuscular disordersneuromuscular disorders may result.may result.

Facebow record and TransferFacebow record and Transfer
For semi adjustable articulator

Simple Hinge:Simple Hinge:opening & closing movementopening & closing movement
(Non adjustable)(Non adjustable)
Average ValueAverage Value:: excursive guidance based onexcursive guidance based on
average anatomic values (fixed guide type)average anatomic values (fixed guide type)
Semi-adjustableSemi-adjustable:: HANAU articulatorHANAU articulator
Fully adjustable:Fully adjustable: duplicates full range ofduplicates full range of
mandibular border movements.mandibular border movements.
II-- Classification of ArticulatorsClassification of Articulators
According to which records they accept and the adjustments thatAccording to which records they accept and the adjustments that
can be made to replicate mandibular movements.can be made to replicate mandibular movements.

Fully-adjustable ArticulatorFully-adjustable Articulator
An articulator that allowsAn articulator that allows accurateaccurate replication ofreplication of
three dimensional movement of recordedthree dimensional movement of recorded
mandibular motionmandibular motion
Face-bow recordFace-bow record
Interocclusal recordInterocclusal record
Protrusive recordProtrusive record
Lateral recordsLateral records
Can also utilize more complex types of face-bow andCan also utilize more complex types of face-bow and
lateral records.lateral records.

Based on the complexity on the condylarBased on the complexity on the condylar
movements that they can simulate.movements that they can simulate.

Class IClass I

Class IIClass II

Class IIIClass III

Class IVClass IV
IIII- Classification of- Classification of

Classification of ArticulatorsClassification of Articulators
Class IClass I
A simple holding instrument capable ofA simple holding instrument capable of
accepting a single static registration.accepting a single static registration.
Only vertical motion possibleOnly vertical motion possible
A non-adjustable articulator.A non-adjustable articulator.

e.g. Simple Hinge.e.g. Simple Hinge.

Class I ArticulatorClass I Articulator

Class IIClass II
An instrument that permits horizontal asAn instrument that permits horizontal as
well as vertical movement but does notwell as vertical movement but does not
relate the motion to the temporo-relate the motion to the temporo-
mandibular joints.mandibular joints.
A non-adjustable articulatorA non-adjustable articulator

e.g. Hanau matee.g. Hanau mate

Class II ArticulatorClass II Articulator

Class IIIClass III
An instrument that simulates the condylarAn instrument that simulates the condylar
pathways by using mechanical averages for allpathways by using mechanical averages for all
or part of the motion.or part of the motion.
A semi-adjustable articulator.A semi-adjustable articulator.

e.g. Hanau Wide Vuee.g. Hanau Wide Vue
Whipmix 3840Whipmix 3840

Class III ArticulatorClass III Articulator

Class IVClass IV
The most complex and precise typeThe most complex and precise type
Allows three dimensional dynamic registrations.Allows three dimensional dynamic registrations.
Allow the casts to be oriented to theAllow the casts to be oriented to the
temporomandibular joints.temporomandibular joints.
Replicates all mandibular movements.Replicates all mandibular movements.
A fully adjustable articulator.A fully adjustable articulator.

e.g. Denar D4e.g. Denar D4

Class IV ArticulatorClass IV Articulator

IIIIII- Classification of Articulators- Classification of Articulators
Based on the condylar elementBased on the condylar element
locationlocation

ArconArcon

Non-arconNon-arcon

Arcon ArticulatorArcon Articulator
Type of articulator that contains theType of articulator that contains the
condylar path elements within its uppercondylar path elements within its upper
members while the condyle is withinmembers while the condyle is within
the lower member.the lower member.
Can be semi-adjustable or fullyCan be semi-adjustable or fully
adjustable.adjustable.

Arcon ArticulatorArcon Articulator

Non-arcon ArticulatorNon-arcon Articulator
Non-arconNon-arcon
Type of articulator that contains theType of articulator that contains the
condyle as part of the upper membercondyle as part of the upper member
while the condylar path elements are inwhile the condylar path elements are in
the lower member.the lower member.
Opposite set-up to naturally occurringOpposite set-up to naturally occurring
anatomyanatomy

Non-arcon ArticulatorNon-arcon Articulator

Which One Do I Use?Which One Do I Use?
Choice of articulator depends upon:Choice of articulator depends upon:

Projected useProjected use

Extent/complexity of treatmentExtent/complexity of treatment

Patient’s occlusionPatient’s occlusion

Dentist’s training/skill levelDentist’s training/skill level

Dentist preference/judgmentDentist preference/judgment

Which One Do I Use?Which One Do I Use?
In general:In general:

More complex the case, the more complex is theMore complex the case, the more complex is the
articulator neededarticulator needed

More complex the articulator, the more expensive itMore complex the articulator, the more expensive it
is and the more technically sensitive and timeis and the more technically sensitive and time
consuming is its useconsuming is its use

More complex the articulator, the fewer theMore complex the articulator, the fewer the
occlusal errors likely to be present, lessocclusal errors likely to be present, less
adjustments likely needed, less chairtime in deliveryadjustments likely needed, less chairtime in delivery

WINKLER CLASSIFICATIONWINKLER CLASSIFICATION
Was developed in 1972 in Michigan ,Was developed in 1972 in Michigan ,
Was divided into 4 classes according toWas divided into 4 classes according to
function , capability,…..function , capability,…..
CLASS ICLASS I
AllowsAllows only hinge movement so itonly hinge movement so it acceptaccept
only centric occluding relation .only centric occluding relation .
Examples:Examples:
Gariot hinge 1805.Gariot hinge 1805.

Class IIClass II
AllowsAllows for hinge as well as horizontalfor hinge as well as horizontal
movement , sub-divided into:movement , sub-divided into:
-A--A-
Eccentric movement isEccentric movement is
set based on averageset based on average
or arbitrary valuesor arbitrary values ..
Examples:Examples:
Grittman.Grittman.
Simplex.Simplex.
-B--B-
Eccentric movement areEccentric movement are
allowed according toallowed according to
the theories of arbitrarythe theories of arbitrary
motionmotion..
Examples ;Examples ;
MaxillomandibularMaxillomandibular
relation (Monson).relation (Monson).

Class IIIClass III
ItIt allowsallows mounting the casts using face-mounting the casts using face-
bow.bow.
Articulators of this class areArticulators of this class are classifiedclassified into.into.
☻☻ Arcon type. ☺ Non-Arcon type.Arcon type. ☺ Non-Arcon type.

AcceptAccept static protrusive record and usestatic protrusive record and use
equivalent for the rest of the movements .equivalent for the rest of the movements .
ExamplesExamples
Hanau model H non arcon type.Hanau model H non arcon type.
Bergstorme articulator arconBergstorme articulator arcon
type.type.
Dentatus articulator as Hanau model.Dentatus articulator as Hanau model.
CLASS IVCLASS IV-A:-A:

ItIt acceptaccept static protrusive record and some lateralstatic protrusive record and some lateral
records.records.
ExamplesExamples ;;
Trubyte articulator.Trubyte articulator.
Kinescope articulator.Kinescope articulator.
Tripod articulator.Tripod articulator.
Ney articulator.Ney articulator.
Hanau model 130-21.Hanau model 130-21.
CLASS IVCLASS IV-B:-B:

AcceptAccept 3 dimensional dynamic registration ,3 dimensional dynamic registration ,
(Inter-occlusal , protrusive movement, left(Inter-occlusal , protrusive movement, left
lateral, right lateral).lateral, right lateral).
Cast orientation is done through FACE-BOWCast orientation is done through FACE-BOW
transfer.transfer.
CLASS VCLASS V::

Class VClass V-A-A
Registration byRegistration by
stereographicstereographic
tracingtracing
ExamplesExamples
TMJ articulator .TMJ articulator .
Class VClass V-B-B
Registration byRegistration by
pantographic tracingpantographic tracing
ExamplesExamples
Denar-mark type.Denar-mark type.

Weinberg classification:Weinberg classification:
The evaluation of this type depends on the degreeThe evaluation of this type depends on the degree
of accuracy of the occlusion of theof accuracy of the occlusion of the
Classified into:Classified into:
Arbitrary.Arbitrary.
Positional .Positional .
Semi-adjustable.Semi-adjustable.
Adjustable .Adjustable .

02 FACE BOWS AND ARTICULATORS

02 FACE BOWS AND ARTICULATORS

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