Articulating Paper
No inspection for occlusal interferences is complete without the use of Articulating Paper. It is essential for checking newly finished restorations and adjusting the occlusion of a patient in order to maximize their comfort and overall oral health. There are a multitude of Articulating Paper, Film and instrument types but the most highly recommended are listed below:
1) Bausch 200m Articulating Paper
The design of this Articulating Paper features progressive color transfer which perfectly illustrates pressure distribution through shade variation – the lighter the bite, the lighter the mark and vice versa. Moreover, the clarity in assessment of pressure distribution obtained by this type of Articulating Paper allows for immediate visibility of high spots as well as effective highlighting of any masticatory pressure interferences. This wonderful 200 micron Articulating Paper is available in both blue and red (300 strips per pack) as well as in a horseshoe shape (blue only – 50 sheets per pack).
2) Bausch 40m micro-thin Articulating Papers
The unique features of this type of Articulating Paper include exceptional thinness, tear-resistance as well as liquid color coating on both sides. All of these come together to allow for precise and accurate marking of occlusal contacts and interferences (even on challenging surfaces such as gold, ceramic, polished metal, or acrylic). All the while eliminating the risk of false or smeared contacts.
The double-sided liquid color coating contains numerous microcapsules which immediately burst when met with even the slightest bit of masticatory pressure. This process results in the release of a vivid color which regenerates for repeated use.
Ideally, these micro-thin Articulating Papers are used for two-tone assessments of static occlusion (marked firstly in red) and dynamic occlusion (marked secondly in blue). Although color order may be adjusted if need be.
Lastly, these Articulating Papers are available in a horseshoe shape whose pre-cut design creates application that is easy, and which does not require forceps. Additionally, the plastic dispensers in which this particular Articulating paper shape is packaged, allows for an effortless one-handed removal. Furthermore, the advantage that this horseshoe shape provides is the ability for all tooth contacts across the dental arch to be evaluated with just a single sheet. This property makes them absolutely essential for complete prosthodontics and bite splint adjustments.
They are available in blue and red 104x20mm (with 200 strips per pack), a blue pre-cut pack (with 200 strips in each) as well as in a blue roll 16mm in width.
3) Bausch occlusion test films (8m)
These films are designed with extremely thin test material in order to accurately define the minuscule contours of the occlusal contacts (especially when on highly polished ceramic or metal surfaces, as those make it extra difficult to detect the contact). This ability holds great importance as even the tiniest high spots can lead to dysfunctions like TMD (temporomandibular disorders) or hindrance in swallowing.
Enhanced color transfer, even on moist surfaces, is ensured with the 6m thick, vibrant color coating which includes a hydrophilic component and is made from wax and pigment.
These films also exhibit substantial effectiveness in assessing static occlusion (marked in red) followed by dynamic occlusion (marked in blue). The color sequence can be customised, and several different colors can be used in order to achieve a more detailed dynamic occlusion assessment.
All films include double-sided color coatings for marking antagonistic contacts and are available in four colors: black, red, green and blue.
4) 12m Metallic Articulating Film
The antistatic qualities of this film type, along with its extreme tear-resistance make it an ideal candidate for resilience testing. Its other helpful features include easy application that doesn’t require the use of forceps as well as accurate high spot marking. Additionally, it offers excellent color transfer, and the metallic backing helps clearly indicate which side is coated with color.
The 12m Metallic Articulating Film is made of metallic polyester (Shimstock film) and is available in a 100 sheets pack of 8mm uncoated Shimstock or 20 meters of 16mm uncoated Shimstock.
5) Articulating Paper Instruments
The two types of forceps most recommended for use alongside Articulating Papers/films are as follows:
- Arti-Fol Forceps with longitudinal groove
These are self-clamping forceps whose molded longitudinal groove allows for a secure hold of occlusion papers and films.
- Arti-Fol Forceps for approximal contacts
Their user-friendly design enables quick and precise restoration fittings along with a simplification of handling. These forceps provide a high clamping force which secures the occlusion film on both sides – providing accurate contact adjustments. Standard methods can be used to disinfect and sterilize the instrument, given that there are no cavities.
In conclusion, all of the Articulating Papers and Films listed above make detection of high spots (especially on ceramic or highly polished metal surfaces) very easy. Not only is this very helpful in inspecting for occlusal interferences but it is also crucial in ensuring a flawless occlusion adjustment. Hence, it is highly recommended that you add at least one of these instruments to your set.