The Magical Era of T Scan in Dentistry – A Literature Review

Abstract

Occlusion is a decisive factor for oral health and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) wherein assessing occlusion is critical. For years, various occlusal indicators are available such as articulating paper, pressure-sensitive paste, and waxes with many vital limitations. In 1987, Maness introduced T scan to overcome these limitations. T scan consists of a recording handle, sensor holder, high definition sensors, and Universal Serial Bus port to connect to computer/laptop. It has transformed the landscape of occlusal analysis, offering a dynamic, quantitative method for assessing bite force distribution. Its applications in diagnosing occlusal disease, managing TMJ disorders (TMD), and enhancing restorative and orthodontic treatments make it a valuable tool in modern dental practice. Moreover, it precisely pinpoints the excessively forceful contact locations and displays them for analysis in a colorful three-dimensional view thus helping the diagnostician. This review outlines the critical components of the T scan system and its practical applications in dentistry. It also explores the role of T scan in enhancing the diagnosis and management of occlusal disorders, prosthodontics, orthodontics, and TMD.

Key words: Occlusal discrepancies, Occlusion, T scan, Temporomandibular disorders