occlusal
Pronunciation: oh-KLOO-zul
Relating to the biting or chewing surface of posterior teeth, or to the relationship between upper and lower teeth when the jaws close.
Full Definition
The adjective 'occlusal' describes anything pertaining to the occlusal surface — the top surface of molars and premolars used for chewing — or to the broader concept of occlusion (the contact relationship of opposing teeth). In lab documents it appears in phrases such as 'occlusal reduction,' 'occlusal scheme,' and 'occlusal contacts.' Editors must not confuse 'occlusal' (adjective) with 'occlusion' (noun) or use one in place of the other.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'occlusal' as an adjective only; the noun form is 'occlusion.' Do not hyphenate in compound modifiers unless required for clarity.
In Context
- "The prescription requested 1.5 mm of occlusal reduction on the mandibular first molar." — Laboratory work order
- "Occlusal contacts were verified on the articulator before the case was dispatched." — QA report