Occlusal Disorders, Lecture

Presentation of information that exposes the third year dental students to more advanced occlusal considerations of patients. Definitions, etiology, pathophysiology and differential diagnosis of occlusal dysfunctions of the masticatory system are discussed. Emphasis is placed on conditions that the beginning general dentist should recognize and be able to treat as part of an overall comprehensive therapy for routine patients. The student dentists are exposed to various types of splints that can be used to treat acute patient problems involving muscular, TMD or disc dysfunction prior to dental therapy that may alter the patient's occlusion. Students are presented information on centric relation techniques and appropriate cases to utilize the techniques.