Table 1: Comparison of Digits and Numbers of Top 5 Articulating Silk & Articulating FilmProduct Name Thickness (microns) Number of Strips/Pkg Colors Single or Double Sided AccuFilm II 21 280 Blue/Red Double Ardent Exacta-Film 7.5 75 Blue Single Madame Butterfly Silk 90 N/A Blue/Red/Green N/A Accufilm I 21 280 Blue/Red Single Arti-Fol Articulating Film 8 20 m Red/Black N/A
Table 2: Comparison of Important Features of Top 5 Articulating Silk & Articulating Film
| Product Name | Features | Pros | Cons | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AccuFilm II | Ultra-thin, high plastic deformation | Greater precision, no false markings, stretches without breaking | None found | Occlusal equilibration and restoration adjustments |
| Ardent Exacta-Film | Ultrathin, easy-to-dispense, non-smudging | Eliminates false markings, easily handled | None found | Indicating spots on a tooth that come into premature contact with opposing dentition |
| Madame Butterfly Silk | #40 inking weight, available in blue, red, and green | Ideal for marking mounted models and dentures | Not as precise as other products | Marking mounted models and dentures |
| Accufilm I | Super thin, high plastic deformation | Greater precision, no false markings, stretches without breaking | None found | Precise occlusal equilibration and restoration adjustments |
| Arti-Fol Articulating Film | Suitable for static and dynamic occlusion in several colors | More colors can be used for a precise representation of dynamic occlusion | None found | Representing static and dynamic occlusion |
1. AccuFilm® II Double-Sided Articulating Film – Parkell Products Inc
Product Description
AccuFilm® II is an ultra-thin, double-sided articulating film designed to deliver high-precision marking for occlusal equilibration and restoration adjustments. At just 21 microns thick, it ensures accurate and reliable bite registration without triggering mandibular reflexes.
Product Overview
Engineered for clarity and durability, AccuFilm® II produces consistently sharp and easy-to-read marks while minimizing false positives. Its unique material stretches without breaking and avoids snap-back distortion, providing superior marking accuracy and control during adjustments.
Key Features
- Super thin (21 microns) for enhanced precision
- Double-sided for efficient application
- Does not trigger bite reflexes that can alter occlusion readings
- Produces clean, sharp, and highly visible marks
- No false markings or smudges
- Stretches without tearing and resists snap-back distortion
- Highest plastic deformation among major brands tested
Common Applications
- Occlusal equilibration
- Crown and bridge adjustment
- Checking static and dynamic occlusion
- Implant and denture occlusal analysis
- General restorative bite marking
Technical Specifications
- Thickness: 21 microns
- Sidedness: Double-sided
- Marking Quality: Sharp, consistent, no smudging
- Deformation: Highest plastic deformation in its category
- Compatibility: Works with both natural teeth and restorative materials
Customer Ratings
Highly regarded for accuracy, reliability, and superior handling in clinical adjustments and fine-tuning restorations.
Customer Feedback
Clinicians report highly visible, reliable marks and consistent performance without distortion. Many note improved efficiency in occlusal adjustments and reduced patient chair time.
Top 10 Articulating Paper Forceps & Holders
2. Ardent™ Exacta-Film™ Articulating Film – Ultra Thin – Ardent Inc
Product Description
Exacta-Film™ is an ultra-thin articulating film designed to clearly identify premature occlusal contacts with accuracy and ease. Packaged in a convenient flip-top box, it provides effortless dispensing and precise marking without smudging or false contacts.
Product Overview
Engineered for clear, clean occlusal detection, Exacta-Film™ delivers reliable bite registration in a thin, flexible format. Its non-smudging formulation and interleaved film strip design make it easy to handle and apply, minimizing chair time during adjustments.
Key Features
- Ultra-thin film (0.0075″) for high-precision bite registration
- Identifies premature occlusal contact points accurately
- Non-smudging and false-marking resistant
- Easy to handle for quick, controlled application
- Packaged in a flip-top dispenser box for convenience
- Interleaved film strips prevent sticking and tearing
Common Applications
- Identifying high spots in occlusion
- Verifying bite accuracy during restorations
- Occlusal adjustment of crowns, bridges, and dentures
- General restorative bite checks
Technical Specifications
- Film Thickness: 0.0075 inches
- Quantity: 75 interleaved film strips per box
- Packaging: Flip-top dispenser
- Marking: No smudging, no false positives
- Handling: Easy to dispense and apply
Customer Ratings
Well-rated for its thinness, precision, and convenience in daily occlusal evaluations.
Customer Feedback
Users appreciate the sharp markings and the ease of handling the film strips. The flip-top box is frequently noted for improving workflow and keeping the product clean and accessible.
3. Madame Butterfly Silk – Articulating Ribbon – Hager Worldwide
Product Description
Madame Butterfly Silk is a premium articulating ribbon made from natural silk, designed for clear and reliable marking on mounted models and dentures. With high tear resistance and vivid ink application, this silk tape ensures accurate occlusal assessments in a variety of clinical settings.
Product Overview
Unlike traditional articulating papers, Madame Butterfly Silk uses a natural silk base that adapts smoothly to various surfaces. Its uniform ink distribution and ultra-thin profile allow for precise bite registration without smudging or false markings.
Key Features
- Made from natural silk for durability and flexibility
- High-contrast markings for clear visualization
- Available in three color options: blue, red, and green
- Designed specifically for use on mounted models and dentures
- Tear-resistant with uniform ink application
- Ideal for high-precision prosthodontic and restorative procedures
Common Applications
- Marking occlusal contacts on mounted dental models
- Recording pressure points on dentures
- Prosthodontic adjustments and case planning
- Laboratory bite verification
Technical Specifications
- Material: Natural silk
- Inking Weight: #40
- Width: ¾ inch
- Length: 18 yards
- Thickness: 90 microns
- Color Options: Blue, Red, Green
Customer Ratings
Average Rating: Not currently rated
Reviews: No available user reviews
Customer Feedback
Users frequently choose Madame Butterfly Silk for its clarity, ease of handling, and reliable ink transfer on lab models. It’s especially praised in dental labs and prosthodontic settings where precision is critical.
Customer Pricing (if applicable)
- The Dental Market: $31.95
- Supply Clinic: $34.20
- TDSC: $35.99
- Frontier Dental: $33.46
- Crazy Dental: $34.96
4. Accufilm® I Single-Sided, Super Thin Articulating Film
Product Description
AccuFilm® I is a single-sided articulating film designed to deliver precise and accurate bite markings for occlusal equilibration and restorative adjustments. With an ultra-thin 21-micron profile, it ensures exceptional sensitivity without distorting bite pressure or triggering reflexes.
Product Overview
Engineered for sharp, easy-to-read markings, AccuFilm® I allows clinicians to detect premature contacts with confidence. Its stretchable design prevents tearing and eliminates snap-back, reducing the risk of distorted bite records.
Key Features
- Ultra-thin 21-micron thickness for highly detailed markings
- Single-sided coating for controlled ink application
- Precut strips for convenient, easy handling
- Flexible and stretchable—resists breaking under stress
- Prevents false markings and ensures accuracy
- Will not trigger mandibular reflexes, preserving true occlusal pressure
Common Applications
- Occlusal equilibration
- Crown and bridge adjustments
- Detection of high spots in restorative procedures
- Precision bite evaluations
Technical Specifications
- Material: Articulating film
- Coating: Single-sided
- Thickness: 21 microns
- Format: Precut strips
- Manufacturer: Parkell
- Packaging: Varies by distributor
Customer Ratings
Average Rating: Not currently rated
Reviews: No available user reviews
Customer Feedback
Clinicians appreciate AccuFilm® I for its consistency, ease of use, and ability to reveal even subtle occlusal discrepancies. The stretchable design is frequently noted for avoiding breakage or misreading during use.
5. Arti-Fol® Articulating Film – Ultra Thin 8 Microns – Bausch
Product Description
Arti-Fol® by Bausch is an ultra-thin 8-micron articulating film designed for highly precise representation of both static and dynamic occlusal contacts. It’s available in a variety of colors, enabling sequential bite analysis for enhanced accuracy in restorative and prosthetic procedures.
Product Overview
This film allows clinicians to clearly differentiate between concentric (static) and eccentric (dynamic) occlusal forces by using color-coded contacts. Its ultrathin profile ensures high sensitivity and clear, smudge-free markings, even on hard surfaces like ceramic and polished metal.
Key Features
- Only 8 microns thick for ultra-precise occlusal marking
- Multiple color options for sequential occlusion checks
- Clearly displays static (red) and dynamic (black) contacts
- Color sequence can be alternated as needed
- Suitable for use on dry or slightly moist surfaces
- Compatible with natural teeth, ceramics, and composite restorations
Common Applications
- Static and dynamic occlusion evaluation
- Crown and bridge adjustments
- Implant occlusal checks
- Post-orthodontic bite balancing
- High-precision prosthodontic analysis
Technical Specifications
- Thickness: 8 microns
- Film Type: Multi-color articulating film
- Color Options: Red, Black (expandable to other colors)
- Material: Coated polyester
- Manufacturer: Bausch
- Packaging: Varies by distributor
Customer Ratings
Average Rating: Not currently rated
Reviews: No available user reviews
Customer Feedback
Dental professionals value Arti-Fol® for its thinness, clear color differentiation, and ability to produce accurate contact patterns without smudging. The multiple color options are especially appreciated during complex occlusal case evaluations.
6. Arti-Fol® Metallic Shimstock Film in Dispenser – Bausch
Product Description
Arti-Fol® Metallic Shimstock Film is a 12-micron articulating film designed to detect even the slightest high spots with precision. Made from metallic polyester, this film delivers excellent color transfer and is antistatic, allowing for accurate placement without the need for forceps.
Product Overview
Optimized for use on highly polished surfaces such as ceramics and metal restorations, Arti-Fol® Metallic Film captures both static and dynamic occlusal contacts in vivid color. Its included dispenser makes handling and application efficient and hygienic.
Key Features
- Ultra-thin 12-micron metallic polyester construction
- Exceptional color transfer for clear occlusal visualization
- Antistatic for hands-free placement—no forceps needed
- Suitable for both static and dynamic occlusal assessments
- Easily identifies high spots, especially on ceramic or metal surfaces
- Convenient dispenser improves efficiency during procedures
Common Applications
- Identifying occlusal high spots
- Checking static and dynamic occlusion
- Use on polished restorations (ceramics, metals, etc.)
- Post-restorative and prosthodontic adjustments
- Implant occlusal balancing
Technical Specifications
- Material: Metallic polyester
- Thickness: 12 microns
- Color Transfer: High contrast
- Film Type: Shimstock
- Dispenser: Included
- Manufacturer: Bausch
Customer Ratings
Average Rating: Not currently rated
Reviews: No available user reviews
Customer Feedback
Clinicians appreciate the antistatic properties and dispenser design, noting the film’s ability to mark even minor occlusal discrepancies with accuracy. Particularly valued in procedures involving highly reflective surfaces.
7. Arti-Fol® Metallic Shimstock Film – Bausch
Product Description
Arti-Fol® Metallic Shimstock Film is an ultra-thin 12-micron articulating film made of metallic polyester. Designed for high-precision occlusal analysis, it delivers clear, high-contrast markings ideal for detecting fine contact points on ceramics and highly polished surfaces.
Product Overview
This metallic shimstock film offers excellent color transfer and is antistatic, allowing for smooth, accurate application. It effectively distinguishes both static and dynamic occlusal contacts and is especially useful in procedures involving metal and ceramic restorations.
Key Features
- Made from ultra-thin 12-micron metallic polyester
- Exceptional color visibility and high contact sensitivity
- Antistatic for easy handling and placement
- Ideal for use on polished surfaces like metal and ceramic
- Suitable for both static and dynamic occlusal marking
- Durable and tear-resistant
Common Applications
- Verifying occlusal high spots
- Evaluating static and dynamic occlusion
- Post-cementation or implant adjustments
- Use on ceramic crowns, bridges, and metal restorations
- Fine-tuning prosthodontic occlusion
Technical Specifications
- Material: Metallic polyester
- Thickness: 12 microns
- Coating: Single or dual-color options available
- Film Type: Shimstock
- Dispenser: Not included
- Manufacturer: Bausch
Customer Ratings
Average Rating: Not currently rated
Reviews: No available user reviews
Customer Feedback
Dental professionals value the film’s ability to reveal subtle occlusal discrepancies without smudging. Its reliable transfer and thin profile make it a preferred choice for critical adjustments on highly polished restorations.
8. Articulating Silk Tape – Bausch
Product Description
Bausch Articulating Silk Tape is a high-performance marking tool crafted from natural silk. Designed to deliver progressive color transfer, it mirrors the qualities of Bausch’s 200 µm articulating papers while offering exceptional tear resistance and flexibility.
Product Overview
Engineered for precise occlusal marking, this silk tape conforms seamlessly to dental anatomy—adapting to cusps and fossae with ease. Its high color reservoir and thin profile allow for consistent, smudge-free markings on both moist and dry surfaces.
Key Features
- Made from premium natural silk
- Progressive color transfer for enhanced marking clarity
- Highly tear-resistant and durable
- Thin and flexible—adapts easily to complex tooth surfaces
- Excellent color reservoir capacity
- Ideal for marking both static and dynamic occlusion
Common Applications
- Occlusal contact analysis
- Prosthodontic case evaluations
- Use on moist or dry surfaces
- Checking restorations, crowns, and bridges
- Full arch occlusal diagnostics
Technical Specifications
- Material: Natural silk
- Thickness: Similar to 200 µm articulating papers
- Color Type: Progressive transfer
- Tear Resistance: High
- Manufacturer: Bausch
Customer Ratings
Average Rating: Not currently rated
Reviews: No available user reviews
Customer Feedback
Clinicians favor this silk tape for its clarity, adaptability, and strong color contrast. It is especially useful in scenarios requiring detailed occlusal analysis and long-lasting marking consistency.
9. AccuFilm® FastCheck Double-Sided Occlusal Articulating Film Strips
Product Description
AccuFilm® FastCheck is a double-sided occlusal articulating film designed to deliver sharp, accurate markings for evaluating occlusal prematurities. With a thin film profile and integrated holder, it enables quick assessments without the need for forceps—ideal for tight interproximal and prosthetic areas.
Product Overview
Designed for precision and convenience, FastCheck strips mark both arches simultaneously and adapt easily to individual teeth or entire quadrants. The integrated holder simplifies intraoral use, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Key Features
- Double-sided film for simultaneous upper and lower arch marking
- Thin, flexible material for accurate contact visualization
- Consistently produces clear, high-contrast marks
- Built-in holder eliminates the need for forceps
- Suitable for tight occlusal and prosthetic contact points
- Can be used on a single tooth or across an entire quadrant
Common Applications
- Identifying high occlusal contacts
- Assessing occlusal prematurities
- Post-restorative occlusal checks
- Use on crowns, bridges, and prostheses
- Full or partial arch evaluations
Technical Specifications
- Film Type: Double-sided
- Application: Occlusal analysis
- Holder: Built-in
- Material: Thin articulating film
- Manufacturer: Parkell
Customer Ratings
Average Rating: Not currently rated
Reviews: No available user reviews
Customer Feedback
Users appreciate the convenience of the built-in holder and the precision of the dual-arch marking. It’s particularly valued for reducing chair time during occlusal adjustments and prosthetic fittings.
10. Exposure™ Articulating Film
Product Description
Exposure™ Articulating Film is a user-friendly occlusal marking film designed for fast, precise identification of high contact points. With a built-in handle and versatile application on wet, dry, metal, or nonmetallic surfaces, it simplifies occlusal checks across individual teeth or full quadrants.
Product Overview
This articulating film requires no forceps—just snap and bite. Its thin, flexible design delivers sharp contact markings in a variety of intraoral conditions, making it a convenient choice for chairside occlusal evaluations.
Key Features
- Built-in handle—no forceps required
- Snap-and-bite design for ease of use
- Marks high contacts on wet or dry teeth
- Compatible with metal and nonmetal restorations
- Effective for single tooth or quadrant assessments
- Fast, clear identification of occlusal contact points
Common Applications
- Occlusal contact detection
- Post-restorative bite adjustment
- Implant occlusion checks
- Full arch and quadrant occlusal evaluation
- Use on crowns, bridges, and fillings
Technical Specifications
- Film Type: Double-sided with integrated handle
- Application: Snap-and-bite
- Surface Compatibility: Wet/dry, metal/nonmetal
- Manufacturer: Not specified
Customer Ratings
Average Rating: Not currently rated
Reviews: No available user reviews
Customer Feedback
Clinicians appreciate the simplicity and speed of Exposure™ Film, especially its versatility across various restoration types and ease of handling without tools.
