Dental Terms

Dental Patient Education Resources

Occlusion

Occlusion Edmonton

Occlusion, in dentistry, refers to the way your upper (maxillary) and lower (mandibular) teeth come into contact when you bite, chew, or rest your jaw. Proper occlusion is essential for efficient chewing, clear speech, and long-term oral health. When your bite is well-balanced, pressure is evenly distributed across your teeth and jaw joints, preventing unnecessary strain or damage.

Malocclusion, also known as a "bad bite," occurs when teeth or jaws do not align properly. This misalignment can cause various issues, including difficulty chewing, jaw pain, uneven tooth wear, and even headaches. Over time, untreated malocclusion can also contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and gum problems.

There are different types of occlusion that dental professionals assess to ensure your bite functions correctly:

Static Occlusion: The contact between your teeth when your jaw is closed and not moving. It helps determine if your bite is balanced when at rest.
Dynamic Occlusion: The way your teeth come into contact as your jaw moves during chewing or speaking. Irregular dynamic occlusion can cause uneven wear and stress on certain teeth.
Centric Occlusion: The position where your teeth fit together most naturally and comfortably when you close your mouth. This is often called your habitual or intercuspation bite.
Centric Relation: A distinct jaw relationship that refers to the position of the lower jaw in relation to the upper jaw, independent of tooth contact. It helps dentists evaluate the health and stability of your bite and jaw joints.

At Westend Dental Clinic in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Alexandra Bendic carefully evaluates your occlusion during examinations to ensure your bite is properly aligned and functioning as it should. If signs of malocclusion or bite irregularities are found, personalized treatment options such as orthodontics, bite adjustment, or restorative care may be recommended to protect your teeth and jaw health.

For a professional bite evaluation, call Westend Dental Clinic at (780) 484-0808 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Alexandra Bendic. Our dental office is conveniently located at 17303 Stony Plain Rd in Edmonton, AB, T5S 1B5, {COUNTRY}.

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