Evaluation and comparison of occlusal interference markings with articulating papers of varying thicknesses: An in vivo study.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different thicknesses of articulating paper (100, 40, and 12 µm) in detecting occlusal interferences. The goal was to identify an optimal thickness range that could reliably mark clinically significant occlusal contacts, ensuring better outcomes in restorative procedures.

Materials and methods: An in vivo study was conducted with 13 patients requiring a single-tooth porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown restoration. Occlusal contacts were assessed using three thicknesses of articulating papers (100, 40, and 12 µm) during maximum intercuspation. Each thickness was applied sequentially, and any occlusal interference, identified by a "bull's eye" marking, was recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square test to assess differences in detection efficacy among the papers.

Results: Of the 82 attempts to locate occlusal interferences, the 100 µm and 40 µm papers effectively marked contacts, with the 100 µm paper registering interferences in 58 attempts and the 40 µm paper in 60 attempts. The 12 µm paper, however, failed to mark interferences in 71 attempts. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between 100 and 40 µm papers in detecting interferences.

Conclusions: Both 100 and 40 µm articulating papers effectively detected occlusal interferences, with 100 µm providing larger, more visible marks and 40 µm offering greater precision in localized contact detection. In contrast, 12 µm paper showed limited efficacy under standard occlusal forces, underscoring the need for thicker papers in clinical settings for ease of visualization. Optimizing articulating paper selection can enhance diagnostic accuracy, facilitating more precise occlusal adjustments and improved patient outcomes.