Dental Occlusion and Arch Anatomy

What is the typical arch form of the maxilla compared to that of the mandible?

What does the term 'arch length discrepancy' refer to?

In which class is a small mandible categorized?

What describes the positioning of certain teeth in a dental arch?

During mastication, how are the cheeks, lips, and tongue affected in terms of space?

What anatomical area is referred to as the glabella?

Which curve is described as being incomplete for an upper denture?

What is a characteristic of a flat occlusal surface?

Which curve is noted for exhibiting a reversal of pattern?

Which of the following references discusses occlusion in clinical practice?

Glabella

The smooth area between the eyebrows just above the nose.

Arch Size

The normal arch form of the maxilla tends to be larger than the mandible.
This results in maxillary teeth "overhanging" mandibular teeth in occlusion.
Abnormal relationships between the size of the mandible and/or maxilla result in class II (small mandible) or class III (large mandible).

Stability of the Occlusion

Tooth position is vertically dependent on occlusal and eruptive forces.
The neutral zone is the area where the forces between the tongue and cheeks/lips are equal, stabilizing teeth horizontally.
Extraction of teeth disrupts the balance of forces, leading to tooth shifting and an unstable occlusion.

Curve of Occlusion

The curve of occlusion is the curved alignment of cusps and incisal ridges of teeth observed from a point opposite the first molars.
The curve of Spee is the curve of the cusps and incisal ridges of the teeth in one arch observed from the side.
The curve of Wilson is the curve of the cusp tips of the molars in both sides of the arches observed in the frontal plane.
The curve of pleasure (anti-Monson) is a helicoid curve of occlusion in complete dentures, designed to allow for balanced occlusion.

Monson's Curve

Each cusp and incisal edge conforms to a section through the surface of a sphere 8 inches in diameter, with its center in the region of the glabella (between the eyebrows).

Compensating Curve

The curvature of the occlusal plane of the complete dentures, designed to permit balanced occlusion.

Explore the fascinating concepts of dental occlusion and arch anatomy, including the glabella, arch size, and stability of occlusion. This quiz will test your understanding of important terms like the neutral zone and the curve of occlusion. Enhance your knowledge of how dental structures interact during occlusion.