title: Occlusal disease management system: the diagnosis process.
abstract: The goal of every dentist is to preserve the health of his or her patients' masticatory system, as well as to anticipate the long-term results when restorative treatment is provided. These goals cannot be accomplished in the presence of occlusal disease. During the routine oral examination, the signs and/or symptoms of occlusal disease must be noted and the patient educated about the need for further diagnosis and treatment. Better care can be provided to patients if occlusal disease and/or temporomandibular disorders are detected early and properly treated. Treating occlusal disease can lead to a long, healthy life of the dentition as well as to restorative success.
authors.affiliation: University of Southern California Advanced Esthetic Dentistry Continuum, Los Angeles, California, USA.
authors.forename: Jose-Luis
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Ruiz
authors.forename: Thomas A
authors.initials: TA
authors.lastname: Coleman
mesh_terms: D003190:Comprehensive Dental Care; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D008310:Malocclusion / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D008487:Medical History Taking; D017090:Occlusal Splints; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010808:Physical Examination; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D014076:Tooth Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy