Effects of comparative jaw size on mandibular movement and occlusion.
Comparative jaw size should be investigated as fifth factor and determinant of occlusion. It has a direct effect on each component of occlusion. The loss of function of the anterior teeth generates profound changes in used to show stable tooth-to-tooth relationships. These stable occlusion have been observed often and are functioning well in individual mouths. Guidance is a major factor in occlusion and when lost by nonfunction of the anterior teeth must be replaced to provide comfort and stabilization. Alternates to canine and anterior guidance are found in group function and bilateral balanced occlusions. Research is necessary to understand the full effect of comparative jaw size on occlusion and mandibular movement. Research will also provide answers to many perplexing questions.
Jensen
W O
WO
University of Southern California, School of Dentistry, Los Angeles.
D003766:Dental Occlusion; D006801:Humans; D007568:Jaw / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D008334:Mandible / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000254:growth & development / Q000502:physiology*; D008437:Maxilla / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000254:growth & development; D009068:Movement; D014070:Tooth / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology