A controversy with respect to occlusion.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomechanics
• Occlusion

Background:

• Centric relation is the standard for assessing occlusion in healthy individuals.
• The occlusal position in patients with deformed condyles requires further clarification.
• Current methods for determining occlusion may not be suitable for all patient groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effectiveness and limitations of centric relation in patients with deformed condyles.
• To explore alternative occlusal positions, such as muscle-induced positions.
• To emphasize the significance of a stable intercuspal position.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on centric relation and alternative occlusal positions.
• Analysis of studies concerning patients with deformed condyles.
• Discussion of muscle-induced occlusal positions and their clinical relevance.

Main Results:

• Centric relation has limitations in patients with deformed condyles.
• Muscle-induced occlusal positions (muscular and terminal) are proposed as alternatives.
• A stable intercuspal position is crucial for functional occlusion.

Conclusions:

• Muscle-induced positions may serve as a viable substitute for centric relation in specific patient populations.
• Further research is needed to validate these alternative methods.
• Achieving a stable intercuspal position is paramount for successful occlusal rehabilitation.