Occlusion
The contact relationship between the maxillary and mandibular teeth when the jaws are closed or in functional movement.
Full Definition
Occlusion encompasses both static occlusion (teeth in full contact at rest) and dynamic occlusion (tooth contacts during jaw movement such as chewing and lateral excursions). In dental hygiene documentation, the term is used to describe how a patient's bite affects oral health, including wear patterns, fremitus, and temporomandibular joint function. Malocclusion refers to any deviation from the ideal bite relationship. Dental hygienists assess occlusion as part of the extraoral and intraoral examination, and editors should ensure the term is not confused with 'occlusal', its adjectival form, or with 'occlusion' in the medical sense of a blockage.
Usage
Usage note: In dental documents, 'occlusion' always refers to the bite relationship. In general medical documents, 'occlusion' can mean a blockage; editors must confirm context before use.
In Context
- "The hygienist's notes recorded Class II occlusion with a 4 mm overjet, forwarded to the dentist for orthodontic referral consideration." — Clinical examination record
- "In this context, 'occlusion' refers to bite relationship, not vascular blockage—confirm the correct sense before approving copy." — Editorial annotation