BASICS OF FUNCTIONAL CLINICAL AND INSTRUMENTAL DIAGNOSTICS
AND PRETREATMENT BEFORE FINAL ORAL REHABILITATION
Figure 7. Intraoral findings were normal. The
dentition was well cared-for, a few restorations were
present, and there was an almost ideally-shaped
maxillary dental arch
Figure 8. The mandible also exhibited a few
restorations, but occlusal ab-normalities (facets,
fracture) could be seen on molars 37 and 47
in the same area, where she had shown severe
preliminary contacts after the “cotton-roll-test”
Figure 9. After touching preliminary contacts on
her molars the patient could finally assume an
evenly supported maximal intercuspation position
Figure 10. Since the clinical findings for the TMJ
alone do not allow a definite diagnosis, electronic
registration of the movement pathways was carried
out
learn not to clench his/her teeth at such times,
because this can cause the muscle tension which
triggers symptoms. To help patients recognize and
avoid clenching their teeth, we give them 3 small,
red adhesive dots as “reminders”, for instance, to
stick on their computer screen at work.27 For many
patients, it has proven helpful to lend them a video
on relaxation exercises, muscle massage, and
movement training.14 It is also a means of testing a
patient’s willingness to cooperate.
Figure 11. To conduct electronic registration in
daily practice, we prefer the easy-to use Cadiax
Compact system
1. c) Intraoral findings and clinical occlusal
diagnostics
Intraorally, this patient exhibited tongue
impressions, wear facets/attrition, enamel cracks,
and pronounced wedge-shaped defects in the
maxilla and mandible.26 On the whole, these are
clear clinical signs of stress and/or parafunctions
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