[A three-dimensional analysis of measuring occlusal contacts of complete denture].

Purpose: This study was designed to analyze the complete denture occlusal contacts by three-dimensional digital technique.

Methods: The artificial teeth occlusal surfaces of ten complete dentures were scanned by noncontact laser scanner and were reconstructed by three-dimensional technique. The locations and the numbers of occlusal contacts between the upper and lower full dentures were studied and measured in centric occlusal position, and further compared with the T-Scan system results by paired t test.

Results: (1) The results of occlusal contacts indicated that occlusal contacts were concentrated on molars and premolars and there were only 2 contacts in the area of anterior teeth. (2) There was no significant difference between three-dimensional reconstructive systematic measurement and T-Scan systematic measurement (P > 0.05).

Conclusions: This study verified the reliability of the measurement for occlusal contacts by the three-dimensional digital system, and may lead to a new way for occlusal contacts research. Supported by Shanghai Leading Academic Discipline Project (T0202).