CAD/CAM international magazine of digital dentistry

26 I I special _ occlusion _The correct physiological restoration of oc- clusion poses a major challenge for every dentist andtechnician.Eventhesmallesthighspot,meas- uring just a few microns, can cause dysfunction in a patient’s masticatory system. In restorative den- tistry, occlusal proportions are constantly chang- ing. It is therefore essential, for the benefit of the patient,tounderstandandmonitorthefunctionof teeth in static and dynamic occlusion. Functional occlusion is important for the overall health of the patient. The interdisciplinary verification of symp- toms and treatment is an integral part of daily practice. Therefore, checking the occlusion during treatment is strongly encouraged. _Occlusion and the potential effects of occlusal interference on patients Every restoration, extraction, prosthetic device and orthodontic treatment changes the static and dynamic occlusion. The smallest occlusal inter- ference of just a few microns is disruptive to the proprioceptors of the stomatological system. This can cause bruxism (clenching or grinding), which can result in functional disorder of the cranio- mandibular system. Overstraining teeth, perio- dontium, muscles and joints are the effects. It is important not only to detect, but also to avoid further functional disorder in the cranio- mandibular system. The smallest interference to habitual occlusion can cause serious disturbances for the patient. An acute functional disorder such asclenchingorgrindingcanbecomechronicinthe long term. Patients with new fillings, crowns and bridges, or who have undergone orthodontic treatment, who complain of typical symptoms (cranioman- dibular dysfunction syndrome) should undergo CAD/CAM 4_2012 Fig. 1 Fig. 2 The importance of occlusion Author_ Dr Peter Bausch, Germany Fig. 4Fig. 3