Occlusal Plane
The imaginary flat surface that contacts or most nearly contacts the incisal edges of the anterior teeth and the cusps of the posterior teeth.
Full Definition
The occlusal plane is a key cephalometric reference and is used to assess the vertical and anteroposterior relationships of the dental arches to the cranial base. In clinical reports, the cant or inclination of the occlusal plane (e.g., steep, flat) is noted as part of vertical skeletal assessment. Editors should be aware that 'occlusal plane' and 'Frankfort plane' are distinct reference lines and must not be substituted for each other. The term is always two words and not hyphenated. In surgical-orthodontic records, the occlusal plane angle may be quantified relative to specific cranial or facial planes, and editors must preserve these angular relationships accurately.
Usage
Usage note: Not hyphenated; must not be confused with other cephalometric reference planes. Specify the angle and its reference plane when reporting numerically.
In Context
- "The cephalometric tracing revealed a steep occlusal plane angle consistent with a hyperdivergent skeletal pattern." — Cephalometric analysis report
- "Correction of the occlusal plane cant was a primary objective of the combined surgical-orthodontic treatment." — Orthognathic surgery treatment plan