OCCLUSAL PLANES Meaning and
Definition
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Occlusal planes, in dentistry, refer to the imaginary horizontal planes that are established in relation to the way teeth come into contact during the closure of the jaw. These planes play a significant role in the alignment and positioning of the teeth and are crucial for maintaining proper bite functionality.
The occlusal planes are determined by the position and angulation of the teeth, primarily those in the upper and lower jaws. They are defined by the curved surfaces of the teeth, specifically the occlusal surfaces (the chewing surfaces of the teeth). The relative height and incline of these surfaces are taken into account when establishing the occlusal planes.
Proper alignment of the occlusal planes is important for various dental procedures, such as orthodontic treatments, prosthetic restorations, and occlusal adjustments. In orthodontics, the occlusal planes are carefully assessed and modified to achieve an ideal bite relationship and to correct dental malocclusions. Prosthetic restorations, such as crowns or bridges, rely on the correct positioning of occlusal planes to ensure proper functionality and distribution of biting forces.
Dentists and dental specialists use various diagnostic tools, such as X-rays and oral examination, to evaluate the occlusal planes of a patient. They take into consideration the patient's bite pattern, tooth wear, and dental occlusion to determine the need for any adjustments or treatment.
Overall, the occlusal planes serve as a fundamental foundation for proper dental occlusion and bite function, maintaining the harmony and stability of the teeth within the oral cavity.
Common Misspellings for OCCLUSAL PLANES
- icclusal planes
- kcclusal planes
- lcclusal planes
- pcclusal planes
- 0cclusal planes
- 9cclusal planes
- oxclusal planes
- ovclusal planes
- ofclusal planes
- odclusal planes
- ocxlusal planes
- ocvlusal planes
- ocflusal planes
- ocdlusal planes
- occkusal planes
- occpusal planes
- occousal planes
- occlysal planes
- occlhsal planes
- occljsal planes
Etymology of OCCLUSAL PLANES
The word "occlusal" comes from the Latin word "occludere", which means "to close" or "to shut". The term "occlusal plane" is typically used in dentistry to refer to the surface of a tooth that comes into contact with the opposing teeth in the opposite jaw when the mouth is closed. "Plane" refers to a flat or level surface. Therefore, "occlusal plane" is used to describe the flat surface of the teeth when they come together during biting or chewing.
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