An Introduction to

Occlusion
RESD 702/702L

Course Goals
To understand the anatomic structures of
the stomatognathic system
To understand mandibular movement
To understand the correlation of the
anatomy of teeth with mandibular
movements
To understand how to use different dental
instruments in the analysis of occlusion
for the diagnosis and treatment of patient
situations

Required Reading
The Electronic Atlas of
Human Occlusion and the
TMJ

v1.0 2008 eHuman

Occlusion
Occlude (latin) to shut up, close up or to
fit together tightly

Occlusion
Glossary of Prosthodontic Terms - 1: the act or
process of closure or of being closed or shut off.
2: the static relationship between the incising or
masticating surfaces of the maxillary or
mandibular teeth or tooth analogues
By definition, it is the study of the way the
maxillary and mandibular teeth are related to
each other.

Occlusion
True definition is
more complex
Involves a
extremely intricate
and complex
system of bones,
muscles, nerves,
and teeth, working
together
harmoniously

Elements of Occlusion
Mastication and
Swallowing
Respiration and
Speech

Esthetics,
Attractiveness,
Pleasure and
Health

Mastication and
Swallowing
Consists of a
coordination of many
anatomical structures
that enables us to
chew and swallow
properly.
They are the most
basic of all human
functions, yet they
are also perhaps the
most complex as
well.

Mastication and
Swallowing
They are the most
basic of all human
functions, yet they
are also perhaps the
most complex as
well.

Respiration and Speech

Phonetics are
dependant on the
exhalation of air
and the way the
oral structures
shape the air as it
escapes back into
the atmosphere.

Esthetics, Attractiveness,
Pleasure and Health

Occlusion
The activities of the stomatognathic
system in function and parafunction
Successful restorations depend upon the
maintenance of occlusal harmony

Clinical Applications
We must be able to identify what can cause
problems in occlusion

All dental restorations must function

harmoniously with the rest of the stomatognathic
system
Having a thorough understanding of Occlusion
is essential in the diagnosis and treatment of
your future patients

GRADING POLICY
LECTURE

LABORATORY

Quizzes- 20%

Partner Casts 5%

Midterm 40%

Dr Berrys Casts 5%

Final Exam- 40%

Projects 10%
2 Wax Quizzes 10%
Midterm 30%
Final Exam 40%

GRADE DISTRIBUTION
A 93-100%

D+ 70-72%

A- 90-92%

70%

B+ 88-89%

Below 70%

B 83-87%
B- 80-82%
C+ 78-79%
C 75-77%
C- 73-74%

TESTING POLICIES
Each student will take his/her written tests relying solely
on mental recall. ZERO TOLERANCE FOR ACADEMIC
DISHONESTY
Rescheduling of exams must be done through the
Student Affairs Office.
Quizzes will be handed out at the beginning of class. If
you are late you will not be able to take the quiz.
During laboratory tests, the student may refer to casts
and other instructional material, but may not give or
receive counsel of other students/instructors.

Contact Information
Email address: jwon05d@llu.edu
Office Ext#: 45907
Office #1172
Office Hours: Thursdays 8am-12pm and 1-5pm

Please do not hesitate to ask for help