The term “occlusal” refers to how upper and lower teeth meet. This concept is important for understanding oral function and overall dental health.
Defining Occlusal
“Occlusal” refers to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. This surface grinds and crushes food. While “occlusal” describes a tooth’s surface, “occlusion” refers to the contact relationship between all upper and lower teeth, both at rest and during movement.
When teeth are in full contact without movement, this is static occlusion. During chewing or speaking, when teeth move against each other, it is dynamic occlusion. Dentists consider these relationships when placing fillings, crowns, or adjusting a patient’s bite to ensure proper function.
Significance of Proper Occlusion
Proper occlusion is important for overall oral health and function. When teeth align correctly, chewing forces are distributed evenly across the dental arches. This even distribution allows for efficient chewing and breakdown of food, which aids in proper digestion. An aligned bite also contributes to clear speech, as the position and contact of teeth influence articulation.
A balanced occlusion reduces excessive strain on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect the jawbone to the skull. Consistent, balanced forces help prevent discomfort and potential disorders in these joints. Proper tooth contact protects teeth from excessive wear, chipping, or fracture. This uniform pressure helps maintain the integrity of natural teeth and the stability of any dental restorations.
Common Occlusal Issues
When teeth do not meet correctly, it can lead to various problems, broadly termed “malocclusion” or a “bad bite.” One common manifestation is an overbite, where the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth. Conversely, an underbite occurs when the lower teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth. A crossbite involves a misalignment where some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down, affecting either the front or back teeth.
Crowding or excessive spacing between teeth can also disrupt proper occlusion. These misalignments can lead to uneven tooth wear, where certain teeth experience more pressure and wear down faster than others. An imbalanced bite can also contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, causing symptoms like jaw pain, clicking sounds, or difficulty in jaw movement. Occlusal issues may also be related to bruxism, which is the grinding or clenching of teeth, potentially exacerbating tooth wear and jaw discomfort. Dentists routinely evaluate occlusion during check-ups and can recommend appropriate solutions if such issues are identified.