articulator
Pronunciation: ar-TIK-yoo-lay-tor
A mechanical device that simulates jaw movement and holds dental casts in their correct spatial relationship for laboratory fabrication and occlusal analysis.
Full Definition
An articulator is a hinged instrument used in dental laboratories to mount maxillary and mandibular casts so that technicians can assess and adjust the occlusion of restorations outside the patient's mouth. Articulators range from simple hinge types to fully adjustable semi-anatomic devices that replicate condylar movements. Editors should note the correct spelling — two 't's — and that 'articulator' is not synonymous with 'face-bow,' which is a separate transfer instrument. The term is always lowercase.
Usage
Usage note: Note spelling: 'articulator,' not 'articulater.' Do not use interchangeably with 'face-bow.'
In Context
- "The casts were mounted on a semi-adjustable articulator using a face-bow transfer record." — Laboratory case notes
- "All full-arch cases must be checked on the articulator for premature contacts before despatch." — QA checklist