SIMPLE VISUAL METHOD FOR IMPROVING CONVERGENCE ANGLE OF PROXIMAL WALLS A COMPARISON STUDY DONE ON MODELS

Ideal convergence angle of axial walls is difficult to achieve clinically especially when multiple abutments are prepared for bridges. Studies have already shown that guided preparation gives better results than non- guided preparation. This paper shows the comparison between non guided and guided preparation on models that were prepared by 17 volunteer dentists. The teeth were prepared as follows: -upper left canine – non-guided. -upper left central incisor - guided. The results were as follows: - convergence angle (CA) for non-guided: 10.58 degrees on average, 27 degrees maximum, one divergent preparation (-1 degree) - CA for guided: 6.11 degrees on average, 9 degrees maximum, no divergent preparation In 6 out of 17 models, CA was not in the 4 - 14 degrees interval on the canine (non-guided preparation) but came within this range on all central incisors (guided preparation). Conclusion: guided preparation is a good way to improve CA and bring it close to textbook values.