I know even the mention of the words centric relation probably has some readers bristling, as this is a much argued over topic. With that said the research by Lundeen and Gibbs at the University of Read More
Orthodontic Root Resorption & Occlusion
Blunting or shortening of the roots of teeth that have been moved orthodontically is commonly seen. In reviewing the orthodontic literature I learned that there is a distinction between mild root Read More
Adjusting An Appliance You Didn’t Make
Are you willing to make adjustments to an occlusal appliance that you did not make? Over the years I have met dentists who "never" adjust an appliance that was made by another dentist, and others who Read More
Doppler Joint Auscultation
A critical piece of joint diagnosis is being able to differentiate the sounds we hear using auscultation. Based on the way load is applied in varying positions we know that in a seated condylar Read More
Diagnosing Ligament Laxity in The TMJ
In a previous post this year I talked about patients who are at risk of developing a "pop or click" and the importance of identifying this risk. This video clip is a segment of the first session of Read More
Joint load & Occlusal Contacts: Part Two
In Part two I continue the conversation about the relationship between the joint load and the occlusal contacts we create when we design an occlusion. That occlusion can be transitional on an Read More
Joint Load & Occlusal Contacts: Part One
Designing the occlusion for a patient with a history of joint issues can be challenging. Understanding where the disc is in relation to the head on the condyle in intercuspal position and excursions Read More
Composite Occlusal Contacts
In yesterday's post I discussed the factors that impact wear resistance in modern composite materials. The great news is that we only have to think about the wear resistance of composite in areas of Read More
Composites & Wear
This week I have been preparing for a lecture at the USC Restorative Symposium called "Occlusal Considerations of Modern Composites". I have been using direct composite as a restorative material and Read More
Limited Group Function, Why and When?
Technically group function is simply when simultaneous contact occurs on multiple teeth on the maxilla and mandible during an excursive movement. The challenge is understanding for the practitioner Read More