Preclinical laboratory study to explore the trueness and precision of digital dental articulation in an in-vitro setting

Introduction: Comprehensive evaluation of maxillary-mandibular tooth relationships is crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment planning, and delivery of high quality dental care. Traditional conventional and digital dental articulation systems offer a potential solution but have many limitations preventing their routine use. Novel dental articulation technology (Occlusion Camera; Mimetrik) offers a non-invasive and contactless way of simulating a patient’s true chewing motion. Objective: The primary objective is to compare trueness and precision of digital dental articulation with a commercially available traditional photometric device (Tech in Motion, Modjaw) and a novel contactless photometric device (Occlusion Camera; Mimetrik). Methods: Ten dental casts representing diverse clinical scenarios will be used. A test rig (reference standard) will hold a maxillary cast stationary while a mandibular cast is moved precisely (250μm increments) in protrusive, right lateral, and left lateral excursions. Movements will be captured with both devices. The processes will be repeated 5 times for 3 random dental casts to assess precision. Analysis: The outcome will be the absolute measurements of linear accuracy at 3 clinically relevant reference points. Trueness will be determined by comparing measured distances to the reference standard. Precision will be assessed using standard deviation from the mean position. Impact: This technology could improve patient experience, reduce barriers to adoption and enhance treatment efficiency and accuracy, leading to wider health economic and sustainability benefits. The AMS Starter Grant for Clinical Lecturers will initiate a broader programme of work encompassing laboratory research, clinical trials, qualitative research, health economics, and implementation science.