[Physiological movements of the teeth]

Studies of 17 test subjects with inductive path recorders in paraocclusal splints showed that 1. With extreme changes in the position of the mandible without antagonist contact and during empty mastication, lingual and distal (anterior to mesial) as well as cranial/caudal movements of the teeth (up to 60 micrometers) are within physiologic limits. 2. With friction (grinding), definitive pathologic alterations develop in the periodontium when this functions is exercised for a longer period of time as bruxism. 3. Guidance of the canine teeth alone protects the lateral teeth from unphysiologic movements.