occlusal compass, finger rule

The mandible is moved by muscle contraction. This movement is limited by the temporomandibular joints, their capsules and ligaments as well as the tooth contacts. The movements of the rows of teeth follow bio-geometric laws. M.H.POLZ has described the reproduction of the movement directions in the horizontal plane on occlusal and incisal surfaces as an occlusal compass; the finger rule serves as an aid here.