Correlation of Occlusal-Plane-Inclination with Functional Condylar Displacement in Different Skeletal Classes

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between different skeletal classes, functional condylar displacement and the inclination of the upper posterior and upper anterior occlusal planes. Methods: 150 patients out of a total of 700 were selected for the study based on recorded occlusal parameters, both genders from 18 years, using cephalostat, condylograph and Cadiax Diagnostic, Reference SL Articulator, Gamma dental software version 7.7.14. Results: Condylar displacement was found in almost every second patient with different skeletal classes. The majority of patients show an aboveaverage steepness of occlusal plane (upper posterior occlusal plane more than the anterior one). Conclusion: Over average steep Anterior Occlusal Plane (AOP) and Posterior Occlusal Plane (POP) is significantly correlated with retrusive mandibular/ condylar displacement in all skeletal classes, whereas in Skeletal class II the correlation is highly significant (Class II>I>III). We conclude that it is very important to determine the upper posterior and anterior occlusal planes for a detailed diagnosis to identify patients at risk of inducing functional complaints by dental treatment and to create an optimized treatment plan for each patient.