[3D analysis of occlusal surfaces of teeth and their contacts. Part III. Development of a method for assessing the balance of occlusal contacts].

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to develop a technique for 3D analysis of the occlusal balance of teeth. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The development was carried out on the basis of the Avantis 3D software (<<Avantis 3D>> LLC, Russia) using teeth scans of 50 subjects with Class I and II (Division 1) malocclusion and different degree of tooth wear. The algorithm and formulas for calculating the balance of symmetry and antero-posterior occlusal balance are presented. The essential features of the technique and the interpretation of the obtained indicators are explained on different clinical cases. Statistical analysis of the results of measuring occlusal balance of patients with different degree of teeth wear and malocclusion is presented. RESULTS: It is determined that the balance of common contacts is more important than the balance of direct contacts. CONCLUSION: Alignment of teeth without noticeable wear provides a better occlusal balance then before. The occlusal balance of worn teeth after alignment may be not good and require selective grinding or restoration of their occlusal surfaces.