Occlusion
Pronunciation: /əˈkluː.ʒən/
The relationship between the upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed, encompassing both static contact and dynamic jaw movement patterns.
Full Definition
Occlusion in dentistry refers to the manner in which opposing teeth in the upper (maxillary) and lower (mandibular) arches contact each other during jaw closure and function. It encompasses static occlusion (the bite in a fully closed position) and dynamic occlusion (tooth contacts during jaw movements such as protrusion and lateral excursion). Editors working on dental clinical notes, prosthetics reports, or orthodontic records will encounter occlusion as both a general term and in compound terms such as 'malocclusion,' 'centric occlusion,' and 'occlusal adjustment.' The term must not be confused with 'occlusion' in a vascular or medical sense (meaning blockage). Capitalisation and hyphenation in compound forms (e.g., 'Class II occlusion,' 'occlusal plane') should follow dental house style.
Usage
Usage note: Do not use 'bite' as a direct substitute in formal clinical documents. Flag 'occlusion' appearing in a vascular context within dental documents as a potential copy-paste error.
In Context
- "The restorative dentist noted that the new crown was slightly high in occlusion and required adjustment." — Clinical patient record
- "Editors reviewing orthodontic case reports should distinguish between 'occlusion' (the general relationship) and 'malocclusion' (a deviation from the ideal)." — Editorial style guide