Inventors:
Joseph P. Trovato - Kearny NJ
International Classification:
A61C 1100
Abstract:
Disclosed are a method and apparatus for relating a model of a maxillary arch of a patient to a simulated axis of rotation of the condyle of the lower jaw of the patient. In carrying out the invention in one form, a pointer is positioned on a predetermined landmark of the upper jaw of a patient. A lateral image of the condyle and the pointer are obtained while the patient's two hamular notches and incisive papilla define a plane which, preferably, is substantially horizontal. From the image, vertical and front-to-back distances of the axis of rotation of the condyle relative to the landmark are then determined. A model of a maxillary arch of a patient is positioned such that the predetermined landmark is located with substantially the same vertical and front-to-back distances from a simulated axis of rotation of the patient's lower jaw. Finally, a model of the patient's lower jaw that rotates about the simulated axis is positioned to abut the model of the maxillary arch.