ANSWERS

How is a centric relation record taken?

A centric relation record is taken by guiding the mandible into its most superior, anterior position in the glenoid fossa, then capturing that jaw relationship with a bite registration material like polyvinyl siloxane or wax. Common techniques include bimanual manipulation, the leaf gauge method, and the Lucia jig.

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Why it works this way

Why the centric relation record matters to the lab

For full-arch reconstructions, full dentures, and complex occlusal rehabs, the centric relation (CR) record is the reference the lab uses to mount the upper and lower casts on a semi-adjustable articulator. According to the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry (2017 glossary of prosthodontic terms, 9th edition), centric relation is defined as the maxillomandibular relationship in which the condyles articulate in the anterior-superior position against the posterior slopes of the articular eminences. If that record is off by even a millimeter, the occlusal scheme the lab designs will not seat correctly in the mouth, and the case comes back as a remake.

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What bite registration material does Dani Dental prefer for centric relation records?

We prefer polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) bite registration material with a Shore A hardness in the 60-90 range, set time under 60 seconds. PVS is dimensionally stable, trims cleanly on the bench, and does not distort under articulator pressure during mounting. Wax records are accepted but introduce more variability, especially in warm shipping conditions. If you send a wax CR record from a Phoenix-area practice in summer, request a cold pack in the shipping kit so the wax arrives intact.

Do I need to send a facebow transfer with the centric relation record?

For full-arch cases, full dentures, and full-mouth rehab, yes. The facebow records the relationship of the maxillary cast to the hinge axis, which lets us mount the case on the articulator in a way that mimics the patient's actual condylar movement. For single units and short-span bridges designed to MIP, the facebow is not required. If you do not own a facebow, send high-resolution photographs showing the occlusal plane relative to the interpupillary line and the ala-tragus line, and we can approximate the mounting.

How does an intraoral scan handle the centric relation record?

Most intraoral scanners (iTero, Trios, Medit, Primescan) capture the bite registration as a buccal scan with the patient in the desired jaw position. For CR cases, you still need to guide the patient into centric relation manually before capturing the buccal scan, the scanner does not deprogram the muscles for you. Some workflows use a scanned jig or leaf gauge to lock the position. Send the scan files in STL or PLY format along with a prescription noting which jaw position was captured.

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This answer is one piece of a larger workflow. The pillar page covers materials, turnaround, and how we build the case to your specification.

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