Dental articulator

摘要

A dental articulator having a upper support member for supporting a dental cast and a lower support member for supporting a second dental cast. A polycentric hinge joint is provided for simulating the temporomandibular joint of a patient. The polycentric hinge joint comprises a fossae block secured to the upper support member and a condyle member secured to the lower support member which engages a fossae recess in the fossae block. A spring is provided for securing the lower support member to the upper support member and simulating the muscles used for mastication. A pair of wires are provided for simulating the ligaments of a patient. The upper end of each wire passes through an opening in the upper support member. The lower end of each wire is secured to the lower support member. A limiting block is provided on the upper end of each of the wires so as to restrict its movement. Removable adjustment rods are provided at the forward end and rear end of the articulator so that the upper and lower support members may be spaced apart a desired distance.