AN INSTRUMENT FOR MEASURING HORIZONTAL TOOTH MOBILITY

Abstract

An instrument for measuring horizontal tooth mobility has been developed for use in clinical practice and in research. The instrument consists of a multijointed carrying vehicle which supports and allows proper positioning of a mechanical dial test indicator with recording point. The carrying vehicle is attached to the dental arches by a clutch with an extraoral female at tachment. Analysis of the data obtained with the instrument showed that good reproducibility is obtained when measurements are made by trained investigators. Reproducibility was good on a group of subjects ranging widely as to periodontal status and age. It was not affected by removal and recementing of the apparatus. The mobility of a complement of 28 teeth can be measured in thirty-five to forty minutes.