Determination of the reliability and repeatability of a quantitative occlusal analyzer by using a piezoelectric film sensor: An in vitro study.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: A digital quantitative occlusal analyzer with claimed lower cost and easier maneuverability has been introduced to replace conventional methods. However, information regarding its performance is scarce. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the reliability and repeatability of a newly introduced digital occlusal analysis device (Accura) and to compare it with an established occlusal analyzer (T-scan Novus). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The sensor films of both devices were positioned between titanium maxillary and mandibular models that were equilibrated and arbitrarily mounted on a semiadjustable articulator. Compressive force was applied to the upper arm of the articulator with a universal testing machine, increased gradually to 50 N, and then released automatically. The time and force measurements from the universal testing machine and the tested devices were recorded by operating software programs. Five articulating film sensors of each device were tested 3 times each by 2 examiners and were repeated on consecutive days, totaling 60 trials per device. Reliability was defined as an agreement between the loaded force and measured force. Repeatability was defined as an agreement between repeated measurements of the Accura and T-scan Novus. Intraclass correlation coefficient was calculated for the statistical analysis (α=.05). RESULTS: The calculated intraclass correlation coefficient of the Accura and the universal testing machine was 0.952. The intraclass correlation coefficient of the T-scan Novus and the universal testing machine was 0.963. Intraclass correlation coefficients that were calculated to compare the data acquired from different days were 0.938 for the Accura and 0.911 for the T-scan Novus. CONCLUSIONS: The experimental results indicated that the reliability of both the Accura and T-scan Novus was excellent for measuring occlusal forces. In addition, both the Accura and T-scan Novus exhibited excellent repeatability.