Normal Dental Occlusion: Standards, Evaluation, and Health Impacts

Normal Dental Occlusion: Standards, Evaluation, and Health Impacts

Outline

1. What is Normal Dental Occlusion?

Definition: The proper contact relationship between upper and lower teeth at rest and during function

Importance: Affects chewing, speech, facial aesthetics, and overall oral health

Ideal Occlusion vs. Functional Occlusion (Not everyone needs "perfect" alignment)

2. The 6 Key Standards of Normal Occlusion (Andrews' Six Keys to Occlusion)

Molar Relationship (The mesiobuccal cusp of the upper first molar fits into the buccal groove of the lower first molar)

Mesiodistal Crown Angulation (Teeth slightly tilt distally)

Labiolingual Crown Inclination (Front teeth slightly protrude, back teeth are upright or slightly lingually inclined)

No Tooth Rotation (Teeth are aligned without twisting)

Tight Contact Points (No gaps between teeth)

Proper Occlusal Plane (Flat or slight Curve of Spee)

3. How to Check if Your Bite is Normal?

Self-Examination Methods (Mirror check, bite paper test)

Professional Diagnosis (Dentist evaluation, X-rays, digital bite analysis)

Common Malocclusion Types (Deep bite, open bite, crossbite, edge-to-edge bite)

4. Consequences of Abnormal Occlusion

Oral Health Issues (Tooth wear, gum recession, TMJ disorders)

Systemic Health Effects (Digestive problems, headaches, poor posture)

Aesthetic & Psychological Impact (Facial asymmetry, reduced confidence)

5. How to Maintain or Improve Occlusion?

Early Intervention in Children (Orthodontics, habit correction)

Adult Treatment Options (Braces, clear aligners, occlusal adjustment)

Daily Care Tips (Proper chewing habits, avoiding teeth grinding, regular dental visits)

6. Conclusion

Normal occlusion is crucial for health, but minor deviations without symptoms may not need treatment

Malocclusion should be corrected early to prevent long-term complications

Regular dental check-ups are key to maintaining proper occlusion