OCCLUSION IN RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY: More than just teeth touching...

Occlusion literally means closing. In dentistry, the word “Occlusion” means the contact of teeth in opposing dental arches when the jaws are closed (static occlusal relationships) and during various jaw movements (dynamic occlusal relationships). The occlusion of teeth is the key to oral function; unfortunately, it is frequently taken for granted in the treatment of patients. Successful restoration of the mouth with any restoration is dependent upon the maintenance of occlusal harmony. This goal is consistent with the view that the primary purpose of dentistry is to maintain the functional integrity of the masticatory system. Dental occlusion is much more than the physical contact of the biting surface of opposing teeth or their replacements. Occlusion is more comprehensively defined biologically as the coordinated functional interaction between the various cell populations forming the masticatory system as they differentiate, model, remodel, fail and repair. Treatment of the occlusion should be considered on an individual basis based on the specific physiologic needs of the various tissue systems within the masticatory system rather than on a preconceived and universal basis.