Question

The most important objective of occlusal adjustment

of a natural dentition is to
A. prevent temporomandibular joint syndrome.
B. increase the shearing action in mastication.
C. improve oral hygiene by preventing food
impaction.
D. achieve a more favorable direction and
distribution of forces of occlusion.

Answer 1

The key aim of occlusal adjustment in dentistry is to achieve a more favorable distribution of occlusal forces, protecting the temporomandibular joint and the overall structure of the mouth.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important objective of occlusal adjustment of a natural dentition is to achieve a more favorable direction and distribution of forces of occlusion. This process aims to minimize the risk of damage to the teeth, supporting bone structure, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and it can help prevent various dental issues such as TMJ disorders or uneven wear patterns on the teeth. The TMJ is the joint responsible for a variety of movements of the lower jaw, including opening, closing, and side-to-side motions, and is supported by an extrinsic ligament that anchors the mandible to the skull.

Occlusal adjustment involves reshaping the biting surfaces of the teeth to create an optimal bite and improve the alignment of the upper and lower teeth. By adjusting the occlusion, the forces exerted on the teeth during chewing and biting can be distributed more evenly, reducing the risk of tooth damage, TMJ syndrome, and other issues caused by an imbalanced bite.