Ashman Not-so-Important Stuff

Question 1

In normal, healthy “function” of unrestored natural teeth, how do you describe the action of the teeth?

Answer 1

It is a smooth action of teeth against each other, which effectively triturates (chews) the food bolus.

Question 2

How long can normal, “function”, of unrestored teeth continue without damage to teeth?

Answer 2

It can continue indefinitely without damage to the mechanism or pain.

Question 3

What are some other words for “parafunction”?

Answer 3

Detrimental function; accessory function.

Question 4

What are some examples of “parafunction”?

Answer 4

Intentional misuse of teeth (nail biting, putting bobby pins in mouth).

Subconscious actions (bruxism, which is grinding of the teeth).

Acessory functions (swallowing, respiration, speech).

Question 5

What causes “dysfunction” in unrestored, natural teeth?

Answer 5

Either deformed structures, or a lack of coordination of c-functioning parts.

Question 6

What does repetitive “dysfunction” cause?

Answer 6

Structural damage and pain.

Question 7

What causes “parafunction” with tooth restorations?

Answer 7

If the restoration is not adequate, it can result in the patient playing with it because it is not even.

Question 8

What causes “dysfunction” with respect to tooth restorations?

Answer 8

If the restoration has a discrepancy that is beyond the capability of the patient to accommodate it…pain and loss of function can occur.

Question 9

With dentures, what induces “parafunction”?

Answer 9

Inaccurate denture fabrication, or bad patient habits

Question 10

With dentures, what causes “dysfunction”?

Answer 10

A discrepancy that is beyond the patient’s capability to accommodate; pain, loss of function, and dysplasia of tissues.

Question 11

Where should the forces of occlusion be directed for implants?

Answer 11

Along the long axis of the implant (parafunctional forces must be eliminated)