Abstract
The author has recently developed a new system, by which it is possible to investigate with the use of tow measuring device the effects of occlusal raising and head movement on the position of the tapping area. Using this system, I studied the position of the tapping points.
The results were as follows:
1. With the head inclination at 0 degrees, the distribution range of the tapping points when the occlusal raising is 1.5mm was 2-3 times larger than the distribution range when the occlusal raising was 0mm. This suggests that the system is useful for investigation of occlusal disharmony in the functional occlusal system. Also, in the high-accuracy measurement of mandibular position on the subjects with normal dentulous occlusion, it is necessary to select the process without the occlusal raising.
2. Tapping points were displaced in the same direction as the direction of head inclination.
3. The distribution range of the tapping points with the head in the horizontal basal position was the smallest. Therefore, when the maxillomandibular registration is to be taken, the head position must be provided.
