Characteristics of a functionally balanced occlusion in prosthodontic rehabilitation
The “ideal” functional occlusion and the features that constitute to it have not been conclusively established. However the idea of a “ideal” occlusion is used today as a goal by prothodontists, orthodontists and dentists, it is derived largely from work published by Angle3 and Andrews1,2. It focuses on specific anatomical relationships of the teeth and dental arches. It is generally assumed that an ideal static occlusal relationship is compatible with an ideal functional occlusion, but this is not necessarily the case 4. The context of this essay will examine the features which contribute to an ideal functional occlusion in different cases and those which are thought to be detrimental with support from current literature.
In order to define a functionally balanced occlusion, we first need to examine the terminology that defines occlusion. Occlusion is simply defined as the contact between one or more lower teeth with one or more upper teeth. “Functional occlusal harmony” is defined (by the Glossary of Prosthetic terms) as the occlusal relationship of opposing teeth in all functional ranges and movements that will provide the greatest masticatory efficiency without causing undue strain on the supporting tissues. Centric occlusion is defined as the occlusion of the patient when they bite together in maximum intercuspation. In the past, the definition of centric relation has been debated upon. It relates to the conceptual relationship between the maxilla and mandible. It has been described in 3 different definitions: anatomically, conceptionally and geometrically7. The important question is whether centric occlusion occurs during centric relation, as the concept of and “ideal” occlusion states that it does. Anatomical centric relation is described as the most anterior and superior position of the condyle in the glenoid fossa. However this is only of academic interest and not...