Abstract
A pantograph was first developed by McCollum in 1929 as a bridge between the living body and a fuulyadjustable articulator, and was later modified by Stuart, Guichet, et al. to what are available today.
The registration and analysis of mandibular movement is indispensable for occlusal diagnosis. A pantograph is one the inexpensive and simple diagnostic instrument that can be readily used by general practitioners.
It is now possible to qualitatively analyze pantographic tracings in a more specific and exact way based on our detailed knowledge of mandibular movement, temporomandibular joint structure and function, related muscles and nerves, etc. A pantograph also allows us to take and keep good records, making it possible to observe changes with time in a reliable way.
Many reports have been published on clinical applications of pantographs for occlusal diagnosis. It is hoped that further research will be conducted on general characteristics of pantographic tracings to facilitate the qualitative analysis, so that pantograph will be utilized by an increasing number of clinicians.
