A method for in vivo quantitative occlusal strain and stress analysis.

A method to evaluate in vivo dental occlusal relationships by measuring strains and stresses, memorized in a thin wafer during occlusion, is presented. The method is based on the property of some polymers to memorize mechanical birefringence (the photoplastic phenomenon); it provides and records static and kinematic patterns related to the sequence of contacts during occlusion. This sequence determines the intensity levels of contacts according to impressions on the memorizing sheet. The method consists of observing and measuring, with an optical instrument, birefringence patterns appearing on a special memory sheet upon which a patient has occluded according to specific instructions. Two ways may be considered: the strain analysis and the stress analysis approach. The goal of the strain analysis approach is mostly clinical: to help attain harmonization of the static and kinematic occlusal patterns by detecting and eliminating prematurities and interferences through a step-by-step improvement of the strain uniformity. Other clinical uses include: Relating occlusal strain patterns to traumatic occlusion, bruxism or other functional disturbances. Diagnosing pain-dysfunction syndrome of supporting tissues in subjects with removable complete or partial dentures. Substantiating the comparative effect of supporting implants in combination with natural teeth in bridges, etc. The goal of the stress analysis approach is both clinical and theoretical, providing help in understanding the temporo-mandibular mechanical relationship.