Box 2. Components of an occlusal examination
From the following article
Crowns and other extra-coronal restorations: Occlusal considerations and articulator selection
J G Steele, F S A Nohl & R W Wassell
British Dental Journal 192, 377 - 387 (2002) Published online: 13 April 2002
doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.4801380
A full occlusal examination including all of the components below is rarely indicated, but different components may be required at different times. Visual assessments of ICP, RCP and guidance teeth are always indicated where you are planning crowns. The following may also be useful:
- Examining for signs of temporomandibular dysfunction:
- Palpation of muscles of mastication for tenderness.
- Palpation of the temporomandibular joints and detailed assessment of any clicks or deviations in mandibular movement.
- Assessment of the range of mandibular movement.
- Checking for facets, fremitus, mobility and drifting (particularly where there are problems with individual teeth).
- Marking up of the dry teeth in different coloured tapes (Fig. 8) to show contacts in all excursions using a high quality articulating tape (where there are issues affecting the entire occlusal scheme).
