Fremitus
Pronunciation: FREM-ih-tus
A palpable or visible vibration of a tooth or implant-supported restoration during occlusal contact, indicating excessive occlusal load.
Full Definition
Fremitus refers to the vibration detected in a tooth or prosthetic restoration when the patient taps or slides the teeth together under occlusal forces. In implant dentistry, its presence signals premature or heavy occlusal contacts that may compromise osseointegration or prosthetic stability. Editors must not confuse fremitus with the generic medical use of the term (chest vibration during auscultation). It is typically assessed clinically by placing a fingertip on the labial surface of a restoration during mandibular excursions. Documentation in implant case notes should retain the term as a clinical finding rather than paraphrasing it.
Usage
Usage note: Do not confuse with the pulmonary medicine use of 'fremitus'. In dental implantology contexts, the term is always occlusal in nature.
In Context
- "Post-insertion records noted fremitus on the implant-supported crown at tooth #11, prompting an immediate occlusal adjustment." — Clinical case report
- "The prosthodontist documented the absence of fremitus as confirmation of balanced occlusion across the full-arch prosthesis." — Treatment summary note