Occlusal trauma

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Prab R. Tumpati, MD — Editor-in-Chief, WikiMD Medical Encyclopedia
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Occlusal trauma
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Tooth mobility, tooth pain, tooth wear, periodontal disease
Complications	Tooth loss, periodontal bone loss
Onset
Duration
Types	Primary occlusal trauma, Secondary occlusal trauma
Causes	Malocclusion, bruxism, dental restorations
Risks
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, dental radiographs
Differential diagnosis	Periodontitis, pulpitis
Prevention	Occlusal adjustment, night guard
Treatment	Occlusal adjustment, orthodontic treatment, restorative dentistry
Medication	Analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs
Prognosis
Frequency
Deaths

An article about occlusal trauma in dentistry

Occlusal trauma refers to injury to the periodontium resulting from excessive occlusal forces. It is a significant factor in the progression of periodontal disease and can lead to tooth mobility, tooth migration, and periodontal bone loss.

Types of Occlusal Trauma

Occlusal trauma can be classified into two main types:

Primary Occlusal Trauma

Primary occlusal trauma occurs when excessive occlusal forces are applied to a tooth or teeth with normal periodontal support. This type of trauma is often seen in cases of bruxism or malocclusion.

Secondary Occlusal Trauma

Secondary occlusal trauma occurs when normal or excessive occlusal forces are applied to a tooth or teeth with compromised periodontal support. This is commonly associated with periodontitis, where the supporting structures of the teeth are already weakened.

Clinical Features

The clinical features of occlusal trauma may include:

• Increased tooth mobility
• Tooth migration
• Fremitus
• Wear facets on the occlusal surfaces
• Pain or discomfort on biting
• Periodontal bone loss

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of occlusal trauma involves a thorough clinical examination, including:

• Assessment of tooth mobility
• Evaluation of occlusal contacts using articulating paper
• Radiographic examination to assess periodontal bone loss

Management

Management of occlusal trauma involves:

• Occlusal adjustment to redistribute occlusal forces
• Use of occlusal splints to protect teeth from excessive forces
• Treatment of underlying periodontal disease

See also

• Periodontitis
• Bruxism
• Malocclusion
• Tooth mobility