FIXED PROS - Occlusal Investigations

Question 1

define occlusion

Answer 1

the static relationship between the incising or masticating surfaces of the maxillary or mandibular teeth

Question 2

define articulation

Answer 2

the static and dynamic contact relationship between the occlusal surfaces of the teeth during function

Question 3

what is in a basic occlusal examination?

Answer 3

• history taking
• observation
• TMJ clicks, crepitus and deviation
• EO - TMJ pathology, muscle pain
• IO - sign of parafunction, trauma, ICP and lateral movements

soft tissues:
- buccal mucosa ridging/linea alba
- tongue scalloping

Question 4

what comes under a detailed occlusal examination?

Answer 4

• based on screen findings when considering large reconstructive work

do a full basic examination

EO:
- palpate muscles of mastication
- lateral and protrusion movements

special tests:
- occlusal paper
- articulated study model
- tooth sleuth

Question 5

what can going from canine guidance to group function do to a restored tooth?

Answer 5

the tooth is already weak
no time for the tooth to become worn down
tooth can fracture

Question 6

what is fremitus?

Answer 6

touch the front teeth with gloves and feel for vibrations in the tooth whilst the patient bites

• can feel heavy contacts

Question 7

how do you record contact?

Answer 7

articulating paper
shim stock - metal foil
GHM paper - teeth must be dry

Question 8

what can occlusal indicator wax be used for?

Answer 8

to see where teeth are in function

Question 9

how can a tooth sleuth be used?

Answer 9

sleuth fits into a cusp
patient bites on the handle
on release, any pain is noted

= used to see if there are any fractures
= cracked tooth syndrome

Question 10

why does cracked cusp syndrome hurt?

Answer 10

1. bite
2. crack opens
3. fills with fluid
4. open bite
5. fluid forced into dentinal tubules
6. pulp stimulated

= pain on release of biting pressure