Computer-monitored radionuclide tracking of three-dimensional mandibular movements. Part III: Multiple point sources--toward mapping of tooth contacts.

A method of tracking mandibular movements has been refined using a computer-assisted radionuclide kinematics technique. Several sites of interest on the same tooth of complete dentures mounted on an articulator have been simultaneously labeled with radioactive material. Accurate reproduction of the movements of the various radioactive markers was observed. The mapping of the relative displacements of the mate teeth was investigated by labeling upper and lower reciprocating teeth with a thin layer of a different radioactive material. Computer image-enhancement programs allow for following the relative trajectory in various open-close movements with increased precision and allow us to draw preliminary conclusions on the possible application of multiple sources labeling to the identification of deflective contacts.