Bonwill Triangle

An anatomical concept in dentistry

Bonwill Triangle

Diagram of the Bonwill Triangle

The Bonwill Triangle is an anatomical concept in dentistry that describes a geometric relationship between certain points in the human mandible. It is named after the American dentist William Gibson Arlington Bonwill, who first described it in the 19th century.

Description

The Bonwill Triangle is formed by connecting three specific points:

• The contact point of the lower central incisors
• The center of the condyle on the left side of the mandible
• The center of the condyle on the right side of the mandible

This triangle is typically equilateral, with each side measuring approximately 4 inches (10 cm) in an average adult. The concept of the Bonwill Triangle is used in prosthodontics and orthodontics to understand the spatial relationships and movements of the mandible.

Significance in Dentistry

The Bonwill Triangle is significant in the study of occlusion and the design of dental prostheses. It helps in understanding the mechanics of jaw movement and is used in the construction of articulators, which are devices that simulate the movement of the jaw.

The equilateral nature of the Bonwill Triangle is used to approximate the path of the condyles during mandibular movements, which is crucial for creating functional and comfortable dental restorations.

Applications

In prosthodontics, the Bonwill Triangle is used to set the condylar guidance on articulators. This ensures that the movements of the articulator mimic those of the patient's jaw, allowing for accurate simulation of mastication and other jaw functions.

In orthodontics, understanding the Bonwill Triangle can aid in diagnosing and planning treatment for malocclusions, as it provides insight into the spatial dynamics of the mandible.

Related pages

• William Gibson Arlington Bonwill
• Occlusion (dentistry)
• Prosthodontics
• Orthodontics
• Articulator (dentistry)