In new research undertaken at the University of Alberta by Carey JP, Craig M, Kerstein RB, and Radke J, the following conclusion is drawn: "No direct relationship between paper mark area and applied load could be found. When selecting teeth to adjust, an operator should not assume the size of paper markings can accurately describing the markings' occlusal contact force content." (Read the article)

 

Myth: The size of a paper mark indicates force content.

Fact: The size shows surface area only.

 

Myth: Force and time can be "read" off paper

Fact: The color intensity has to do with the ability of the paper to ink up teeth.

 

Myth: A "scratch-like" paper mark is an artifact.

Fact: The scratches are very often times premature contacts.

 

Myth: When all teeth in one arch show paper marks, then all the teeth are hitting at the same time.

Fact: Paper gives an "endpoint stamp" of tooth contact order, which "looks like" the teeth all hit at the same time. Actual contact sequence order and contact simultaneity cannot be determined from paper.

 

Myth: When the patient states "It feels good, Doctor," the bite is balanced.

Fact: Patient perceptions are very poor indicators of occlusal balance.

Myth: Paper markings that are similar in shape and size are similar in foce content.

Fact: No study has ever shown that similar markings contain similar forces.

 

Myth: Force and time can be "read" off paper markings.

Fact: It cannot be done without the T-Scan!

 

 

 

 

The T-Scan Novus brings unprecedented accuracy to analysis of dental occlusion, making you a more informed practitioner!