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Evaluation of eccentric occlusal contacts in complete dentures
1Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of Washington, Seattle.
The International Journal of Prosthodontics
|March 1, 1990
Summary
This study on denture wearers found most chewing contacts are near the ideal position, with eccentric contacts occurring more during the opening phase. Posterior tooth shape did not significantly influence these eccentric chewing contacts.
Area of Science:
- Dental Prosthetics
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Oral Physiology
Background:
- Edentulous patients require functional dentures for mastication.
- Understanding denture occlusion and contact points is crucial for patient comfort and function.
- Previous research has explored chewing patterns, but detailed analysis of eccentric contact length is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the length of eccentric occlusal contacts during mastication in edentulous patients.
- To evaluate the influence of different occlusal arrangements on these contacts.
- To analyze the distribution of contacts relative to centric occlusion.
Main Methods:
- Kinesiograph and custom computer program used to analyze chewing cycles.
- Three edentulous patients participated in the study.
- Three interchangeable occlusal arrangements were tested over 1,400 chewing cycles.
Main Results:
- 25% of masticatory contacts were identified as eccentric.
- The majority of occlusal contacts occurred within 1 mm of centric occlusion.
- Eccentric contacts were more prevalent during the opening phase of mastication.
- Posterior tooth form did not significantly impact the range of eccentric contacts.
Conclusions:
- Most denture occlusal contacts are concentrated near centric occlusion, suggesting functional stability.
- The occurrence of eccentric contacts during the opening phase warrants further investigation for denture design.
- Posterior tooth morphology may not be a primary determinant of eccentric contact range in this patient group.