Hinge-axis location and face-bow transfer for edentulous patients.

There are distinct advantages to locating the hinge axis for the edentulous patient by use of the modified Loma Linda hinge-axis locator. These include: (1) alteration of the vertical dimension of occlusion on the articulator may be accomplished since the opening or closing takes place around the patient's terminal hinge axis; (2) valid and verified centric and eccentric relation records may be obtained at an increased vertical dimension of occlusion that is in harmony with the patient's terminal hinge axis; (3) cusp-form posterior teeth can be articulated and verified in the mouth with minimal occlusal correction by use of a terminal hinge axis. Some disadvantages to the procedure may include: (1) the additional procedure of making a modeling compound clutch for hinge-axis location; (2) the initial modification of the edentulous trays to accommodate the recording device; and (3) the technique is used with the Whip-Mix articulator; however, it can be modified for use with other articulators.