Occlusal Reduction
The measured removal of tooth structure on the biting surface to create adequate space for a restorative material of sufficient thickness.
Full Definition
Occlusal reduction refers to the clinical procedure—and the resulting dimensional change—whereby enamel and dentine are removed from the occlusal surface of a tooth to accommodate the required thickness of a crown, inlay, onlay, or other restoration. Dental laboratory technicians evaluate occlusal reduction on study casts and working casts to confirm that adequate clearance exists for the chosen material, particularly for materials with minimum thickness requirements such as zirconia or PFM. In editorial contexts, 'occlusal reduction' must not be confused with 'occlusal equilibration,' which is the adjustment of existing restorations or natural teeth to refine bite balance, not to create space for a new restoration.
Usage
Usage note: Editors should verify that 'occlusal reduction' is not used synonymously with 'occlusal equilibration' in clinical notes submitted for laboratory action.
In Context
- "The prescription noted insufficient occlusal reduction on tooth 46, requiring the technician to flag the case before fabrication." — Laboratory prescription review
- "A minimum occlusal reduction of 1.5 mm is required for a full-contour zirconia crown." — Technical specification sheet