A new approach for accurate pre-planned occlusal adjustment

Occlusal adjustment is important in prosthodontic pre-treatment procedures and in the management of some cases of craniomandibular disorders. This may involve tooth surface reduction and tooth surface addition with an appropriate restorative material. Occlusal adjustment must be distinguished from occlusal equilibration and selective grinding with clear indications and aims. A systematic pre-clinical and clinical protocol has clear advantages and the use of a thermoplastic vacuum-formed template greatly increases the clinical accuracy of a pre-planned adjustment.