How to Diagnose and Treat the Fulcrum Effect – Robert Kaspers, DDS, MS

Recorded on May 7th, 2026

Description:

Most dental professionals understand that most of their patients possess a “dual bite”. However, dental schools today teach the students to treat their patients to the “habitual bite”. As an orthodontist, I have always wanted to treat orthodontic or TMD patients to one balanced and stable bite. To do so, I needed to learn as much as I could about how a proper bite functions as well as what causes bites to break down. This presentation should help dentists and dental specialists understand one of the most detrimental structural causes for breakdown in our patients — the fulcrum effect.

Upon completion of this presentation, participants should be able to:
1) Identify which condylar positions are created by the fulcrum effect.
2) Explain how a CBCT scan taken in maximum intercuspation can become a “functional radiograph”.
3) Discuss the hidden vertical and anterior-posterior discrepancies in a large percentage of our patients.

Robert Kaspers, DDS, MS

Dr. Bob Kaspers graduated from Northwestern University in 1977, receiving a BS in Biology. He received his DDS at the University of Michigan Dental School in 1981. He received his orthodontic training at Northwestern University Orthodontic program in 1983. As an adjunct professor at the University of Detroit-Mercy orthodontic program, he worked with residents on research projects pertaining to condylar position. Currently he owns private orthodontic and TMD practice in Northbrook, Illinois.

Dr. Kaspers has indicated the following relevant financial information to disclose:
BiteFX – Speaker

Relevant literature for further information:

Ikeda, Kazumi and Akira Kawamura. “Assessment of Optimum Condylar Position with Limited Cone-Beam Computed Tomography.” AJO-DO 135.4 (2009): 495-501.

Cordray FE. Three-dimensional analysis of models articulated in the seated condylar position from a deprogrammed asymptomatic population: a prospective study. Part 1. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop. 2006: 129:619-630.

Kaspers RL. Five Condylar Positions taken in Centric Occlusion with Cone Beam Volumetric Tomography can help diagnose and treatment plan any orthodontic, temporomandibular dysfunction, or restorative patient. Library of Congress Copyright Office. Reg No./Date: TXu001696964/ 2010-05-28.