Occlusion-Based Treatment Planning for Complex Dental Restorations: Part 2

Part 1 of this article discussed the rationale for a thorough occlusal evaluation of all patients requiring dental care. Those patients in need of complex reconstruction frequently require modification of one or more of six inter-related elements that comprise an occlusal scheme. Two of these elements, the centric relation position of the mandible and the vertical dimension of occlusion, were discussed. This article will continue the discussion of the remaining elements, beginning with the posterior plane of occlusion. The position and function of the maxillary incisal edges, as well as those of the mandibular incisal edges, will then be reviewed, followed by a consideration of posterior dental occlusal anatomy. These six elements dictate the function and esthetic nature of the final prosthesis, and their successful integration enhances the long-term prognosis of the reconstruction.