Occlusion
Pronunciation: oh-KLOO-zhun
The contact relationship between the upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed or in functional movement.
Full Definition
In dentistry, 'occlusion' refers specifically to the way opposing teeth meet during closure and dynamic jaw movements such as chewing and lateral excursions. It encompasses concepts of centric occlusion, intercuspal position, and occlusal balance. Editors will encounter the term in prosthodontic, orthodontic, and restorative records, where precise description of occlusal relationships — including Class I, II, or III occlusion based on the Angle classification — is clinically significant. The term should not be confused with its use in general or vascular medicine, where 'occlusion' means a blockage of a vessel or passage. In dental documents, 'occlusal' is the corresponding adjective (e.g., 'occlusal surface', 'occlusal adjustment').
Usage
Usage note: In dental contexts, 'occlusion' refers to tooth contact, not vascular blockage. The adjective form is 'occlusal', not 'occlusional'.
In Context
- "The crown was adjusted chairside to ensure it did not interfere with the patient's occlusion." — Restorative dentistry treatment note
- "Photographs of the patient's occlusion were taken as part of the orthodontic records." — Orthodontic case documentation