[Periotest method for the quantitative assessment of occlusal loads].

Using a serial periotest unit we determined the periotest values for disclusion, slight centric occlusion, maximum intercuspation and axially in 102 subjects with a total of 1769 teeth in periodontally healthy dentitions. All teeth were grouped according to the criteria presence or lack of antagonist contact in maximum intercuspation, excentric abrasion facets and occlusal restorations, and statistically evaluated. The difference-normal range for physiologic occlusal loads can be assessed by comparative periotest measurements in disclusion and maximum intercuspation. Thus we have, for the first time, a quantitative, objectifiable parameter for the assessment of the "dimension of occlusion", which at the same time provides information on the functional load on the periodontia of antagonists. Premolar teeth with occlusal restorations tended to have significantly greater differences in the periotest values than teeth with natural occlusal surfaces. By comparing these values with the normal range of differences in the periotest value, a high degree of precision can be achieved in adjusting occlusal restorations. Axial measurements revealed a markedly higher shock absorbing capacity of the periodontia than horizontal measurements.