Chapter 55 - Occlusal Evaluation and Therapy

Abstract

A patient with documented susceptibility to periodontitis may have had the attachment loss amplified by stress to the attachment apparatus by excessive occlusal forces. Knowledge of harmonious occlusal function forms the basis for accurate clinical assessment of both the compromised periodontium and possible occlusal trauma. Diagnostic casts of both arches mounted on an articulator in centric relation allows dentists to evaluate relationships difficult to determine clinically and occlusal contacts of immobile teeth when those teeth might be mobile clinically.