Centric relation: A needed reference position

Centric relation (CR) is a universally recognized term and an acceptable reference position with a long history of success. The problem is that there is little consensus as to its definition or the method of recording it, and this has created an uprising to abolish it.

A review of pertinent literature related to its definition, method of recording, anatomic considerations, and long-standing principles was conducted.

Centric relation is an established term but there are valid concerns over its definition and method of recording. There is consensus on using it as a restorative position in a patient in need of full-arch reconstruction, and there is no substantive clinical research to contradict this. If a clinician decides to use a different position, it should have a different name.

Centric relation is a reproducible reference position that can be utilized for diagnostic and restorative dental procedures with substantial scientific evidence to support that premise. There are numerous well-documented techniques, all of which are intermaxillary, that can replicate the position. There is little scientific evidence to support a premise as to where the exact position of the condyle should be in relation to the fossa.