Comparative evaluation of traditional and digital methods for recording centric occlusion in prosthodontics

Abstract

The accurate determination of centric occlusion is a fundamental prerequisite for the success of prosthodontic treatment. This article presents a comparative analysis of traditional clinical methods and emerging digital techniques used to register centric occlusion. Traditional methods, such as wax occlusion rims, bite registration pastes, and intraoral records, remain widely applied but are limited by operator dependence and reduced reproducibility. Digital technologies, including intraoral scanners and computerized jaw tracking systems, provide objective and reproducible measurements with enhanced diagnostic precision. The study analyzes the strengths and limitations of each approach and underscores the potential of combining conventional clinical experience with digital innovations to achieve optimal treatment outcomes in prosthodontics.