ABSTRACT

Mastication is one of the essential functions of the stomatognathic system. Occlusal contact during masticatory function is needed for grinding food and it ensures the formation of bolus. Mastication of food is dependent on the total occlusal contacts, occlusal contact area and the number of teeth in occlusion. Occlusion is defined as a manner in which the maxillary and mandibular teeth coincide with each other in all mandibular positions and movements. It results from neuromuscular control of the components of masticatory systems which includes teeth, periodontal structures, maxilla and mandible, temporomandibular joints and their associated muscles and ligaments. It appears that the functional occlusal area is an essential determinant of masticatory performance when compared to the occlusal surface or the platform area. The functional occlusal area has been measured as the number of contacts or areas of contact. The essential occlusal contacts in patients with malocclusion will help to explain the masticatory mechanism. This review is prepared to report all the aspects of occlusal contacts, their role in mastication and also occlusal contacts in various malocclusions. Keywords: Dentition, Malocclusion, Mastication, Molars, Occlusion, Occlusal contacts
Publication date: 01/08/2021

https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2021/August/MS_IJBPAS_2021_AUG_SPCL_1002.pdf

Download PDF
https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2021/10.8.1002