Final answer:
Anterior guidance refers to the guidance provided by front teeth during mandibular movement, ensuring functional occlusion, while canine guidance is a specific type where only the canines contact during lateral jaw movements to protect back teeth from wear.
Step-by-step explanation:
Anterior guidance refers to the way the front teeth (incisors and canines) guide the movement of the mandible (lower jaw) during various motions such as biting or chewing. It is significant in the context of functional occlusion – how the teeth come together when the mouth is closed – and in many dental restorative treatments. Canine guidance, also known as cuspid guidance, is a type of anterior guidance where the canines are primarily responsible for directing the movement of the jaw to protect the back teeth (molars and premolars) from excessive wear.
When the mandible moves side to side, it is ideal for the canines to be the only teeth in contact, allowing a smooth, protective glide. This helps prevent issues such as bruxism (teeth grinding) and temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) disorders by reducing the force that's transmitted to the posterior teeth and the TMJ itself. The goals of establishing proper anterior guidance include ensuring the stability of the occlusion, optimizing function, and contributing to the aesthetics of the smile.