An Observational Study to Assess the Three Different Methods to Evaluate Interproximal Contacts (OXIS) in Adults
Anushree Pramodrao Pawar, Chetana Sachin Makade, Pratima R. Shenoi, Mohit K. GunwalAbstract
Background:
Proper interproximal contact placement maintains arch stability and periodontal health. The OXIS classification describes contacts as open (O), point (X), straight (I), and curved (S). Although direct clinical examination (DCE) is most common, photographs using an intraoral camera and cast models are useful for documentation.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to assess the three different methods to evaluate interproximal contacts (OXIS) in adults.
Materials and Methods:
After obtaining the Institutional Ethics Committee approval and Clinical Trials Registry-India registration number CTRI/2025/02/080688, out of the total patients visiting the Outpatient Department of the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, 53 patients were selected on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The contact area on the permanent first molar and the mesial contact area of the permanent second molar in the mandibular arch were chosen. OXIS contacts were evaluated through DCE, photographs using an intraoral camera, and cast models.
Results:
Contact types by DCE and photographs by intraoral camera showed a considerable agreement on the right and left sides (
Conclusion:
Photographic method using an intraoral camera demonstrated greater accuracy compared to the cast model method in assessing OXIS contacts, with the “I” type being the most predominant among posterior contacts.