Abstract: The purposes of the investigation were: i) to compare the condylar displacements from centric slides for 74 sets of casts mounted with an estimated versus a true hinge axis; ii) to determine the error in hinge axes location on the recording of condylar displacements from centric slides; and iii) to define the reproducibility of the Mandibular Position Indicator (MPI), a method of measuring condylar (in vitro) displacements from centric relation position. The findings revealed that routine use of the true hinge axis to obtain MPI readings for analysis of diagnostic casts is not warranted. The mean standard error of MPI double readings attributed to both hinge axes location was 0.4 mm for each component in the sagittal plane. Of the 0.4 mm of mean standard error, 0.2 mm was contributed by the lack of reproducibility of the MPI. The centric relation bite registration technique outlined in this study always captured a superior articulator position of the condylar mechanism. The condylar distractions and deflections from centric relation to maximum intercuspation were primarily in an inferior direction with a smaller posterior component.

Abstract: Unilateral loss of mandibular continuity creates problems in prosthetic reconstruction. For dentate patients, palatal guide ramps or mandibular guide flange prostheses are indicated. Edentulous patients are much more difficult to retrain in mandibular movements, but complete dentures designed with stabilising occlusal contacts can be successful in compensating for the deviation. Three case reports are presented.

Abstract: During orthodontic-surgical treatment of dentofacial deformities, centric relation of the mandibular condylar head to the fossa articularis must be maintained. Intraoperative application of the condylar positioning appliance, in combination with different surgical splints, allows three-dimensional adjustment of the jaw segments. The condylar positioning appliance can be used in osteotomies of the mandible alone, in isolated Le Fort I osteotomies, or in simultaneous osteotomies of the maxilla and mandible.

Abstract: A recording device termed a "Kleinrok Functiograph" was introduced to simultaneously document condylar- and tooth-guided mandibular movements on the same plate. The Functiograph instrument permitted objective monitoring of mandibular movement without tooth contact, with all tooth contacts, and allowed analysis of the correlation of these two recordings. After 10 years of conducting investigations on centric occlusion using the Functiograph instrument combined with clinical, radiographic, and electromyographic studies, it was possible to differentiate the horizontal Functiograph recordings of normal and disturbed centric occlusion at a clinically acceptable vertical dimension. Two types of centric occlusal disturbances were classified to accelerate diagnosis and standardize communication.