Methodological challenges in the study of dental occlusion

This narrative review describes the methodological challenges in the study of dental occlusion. The reigning confusion about the scope of this topic is discussed, and a conceptual framework for understanding dental occlusion research is suggested. The characteristics of clinical studies used in the study of dental occlusion are presented within this proposed framework consisting of a triad comprising the relative positions of the teeth-mandible-maxilla, the oral functions and oral appearance. Challenges in the preparation for a clinical study of dental occlusion are reviewed, which include a discourse on the objectives of a clinical study and appropriateness of different study designs. Guidelines are provided for the conduct of studies with a central focus on dental occlusion and diagnostic tests, prognosis, therapy and aetiology, respectively. Summarising chapters present methodological challenges in designing a clinical study of dental occlusion and threats to the proper conduct of a clinical study.