Reexamination of the precision during articulator handling. Part 1. Vertical displacement.

Using several brands of articulators, we examined the precision involved in themanipulation of them. First of all, we measured the vertical dimension between the upper andlower frame as we adjusted articulator. Secondly, we measured the vertical load given to theupper frame by handling. Thirdly, we measured the vertical displacement, which is caused whenwe loaded statically to the center of the upper frame, or also measured the rest displacement afterhaving removed the vertical load.We got these results. The rigidity or the precision of articulators should be taken intoconsideration, and we should adjust the ‘Inclination of sagittal condyle path’(I. S. C. P.) to 30°and the ‘Inclination of sagittal incisal path’(I. S. I. P.) to 0° as we mount a model. However wefound error due to vertical displacement during these adjustments after mounting a model. Sowe should take these things into consideration and use articulators in the clinic.