A comparative study to correlate between clinically and radiographically determined sagittal condylar guidance in participants with different skeletal relationships

CONTEXT Many authors have conducted studies that determine horizontal condylar guidance (HCG) using various methods, articulator systems, and recording materials. However, there is a dearth of literature on variability existing in HCG in individuals with different skeletal relationships. This study is an attempt to verify whether such a difference exists or not. AIMS The aim of this study is to determine and correlate the HCG in individuals with Angle's Class I, Class II, and Class III malocclusion using radiographic and clinical methods. SETTINGS AND DESIGN HCG was recorded for thirty individuals, ten of each class. For each individual, HCG was recorded clinically as well as radiographically. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Clinically, HCG was recorded using protrusive check bites and a semi-adjustable articulator. Radiographically, two methods were employed. First, a "tangent method" wherein the angle made by a tangent to the posterior slope of articular eminence with the Frankfurt horizontal (FH) plane was considered as the HCG, and second, a "protrusive method" where the position of the condyle at maximum intercuspation and 6 mm protrusion were traced, and the angle this path made with the FH plane was recorded as the HCG. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Descriptive statistical analysis along with Tukey's test and analysis of variance was used to calculate and compare the mean values. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to establish correlation between various means. RESULTS A significant difference in the HCG of three skeletal relationships was seen, with Class II having a steeper angle than the other two. Among the various methods used, a correlation was found between the clinical and the protrusive method; however, the tangent method yielded greater values of HCG. CONCLUSIONS The average value of HCG should not be used as it differs according to the skeletal relationship. Radiographic method can be used to yield consistent HCG; however, the protrusive method should be employed.