Occlusion
(dentistry)
From Wikipedia, the free
encyclopedia
Occlusion, in a dental context, means simply the
contact between teeth. More technically, it is the
relationship between the maxillary
(upper) and mandibular
(lower) teeth when they approach each other, as occurs
during chewing or at rest.
Malocclusion
is the misalignment of teeth and jaws, or more simply, a
"bad bite." Malocclusion can cause number of health and
dental problems.
Static
occlusion refers to contact between teeth when the
jaw is closed and stationary, while dynamic occlusion
refers to occlusal contacts made when the jaw is moving,
as with chewing.
Centric occlusion is the occlusion a person makes
when they close their jaw and fit their teeth together
in
maximum intercuspation.
It is also referred to as a person's habitual bite, bite
of convenience, or intercuspation position (ICP).
Centric relation, not to be confused with centric
occlusion, is a relationship between the upper and
lower jaw.
Occlusal problems
Malocclusion can cause a number of problems, not just
with teeth, but with gums, the
temporomandibular joint
(TMJ), and jaw muscles. Teeth, fillings, and crowns may
wear, break, or loosen, and teeth may be tender or ache.
Receding gums can be exacerbated by a faulty bite. TMJ
problems, broadly termed
temporomandibular joint disorder
or TMJ syndrome, can include clicking, grinding, or pain
in the jaw joint, ringing or buzzing in the ears, and
difficulty opening and closing the mouth. If the jaw is
mispositioned, jaw muscles may have to work harder,
which can lead to fatigue and or muscle spasms. This in
turn can lead to headaches or migraines, eye or sinus
pain, and pain in the neck, shoulder, or even back.
Untreated damaging malocclusion can lead to
occlusal trauma.
Some of the treatments for different occlusal problems
include tooth adjustments, replacement of teeth,
medication (usually temporary), a diet of softer foods,
relaxation therapy for stress-related clenching. Fixed
appliances, known as orthodontic or dental braces,
may be used to adjust the occlusion, and removable
appliances, called
occlusal splints,
may be used for adjustment as well as for other
purposes.
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