| occlusal | <dentistry> The chewing or grinding surface of the bicuspid and molar teeth. (08 Jan 1998) |
|---|---|
| occlusal adjustment | Selective grinding of occlusal surfaces of the teeth in an effort to eliminate premature contacts and occlusal interferences; to establish optimal masticatory effectiveness, stable occlusal relationships, direction of main occlusal forces, and efficient multidirectional patterns, to improve functional relations and to induce physiologic stimulation of the masticatory system; to eliminate occlusal trauma; to eliminate abnormal muscle tension; to aid in the stabilization of orthodontic results; to treat peridontal and temporomandibular joint problems; and in restorative procedures. (12 Dec 1998) |
| occlusal analysis | A study of the relations of the occlusal surfaces of opposing teeth and their effect upon related structures. Synonym: bite analysis. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal balance | A condition in which there are simultaneous contacts of the occluding units of the opposing dental arches in centric and eccentric positions within the functional range. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal caries | Caries starting from the occlusal surface of a tooth. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal clearance | A condition in which the opposing occlusal surfaces may glide over one another without any interfering projection. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal correction | The correction of malocclusion, by whatever means is employed, elimination of disharmony of occlusal contacts. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal curvature | A curved surface which makes simultaneous contact with the major portion of the incisal and occlusal prominences of the existing teeth, the curve of a dentition on which the occlusal surfaces lie. Synonym: occlusal curvature. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal embrasure | A space existing on the occlusal aspect of the interproximal contact areas between adjacent posterior teeth. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal force | The result of muscular force applied on opposing teeth. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal form | The form of the occlusal surface of a tooth or a row of teeth. Synonym: occlusal pattern. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal imbalance | An inharmonious relationship between the teeth of the maxilla and mandible during closing or functional movements of the jaw. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal path | A gliding occlusal contact, the path of movement of an occlusal surface. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal pattern | The form of the occlusal surface of a tooth or a row of teeth. Synonym: occlusal pattern. (05 Mar 2000) |
| occlusal plane | <dentistry> The imaginary surface on which upper and lower teeth meet. (08 Jan 1998) |