Pattern of occlusal contacts in eccentric mandibular positions in dental students

Background and aims. This study observed occlusal contacts and their area on the teeth during lateral mandibular movements. The percentage of each occlusal pattern was determined. Materials and methods. Fifty subjects (male: 27, female: 23), aged 20-29 years, were included in the study. The criteria for selection were as follow: all subjects (i) were in their twenties; (ii) had normal occlusal alignment, no temporomandibular signs and symptoms with Angle’s Class I relationship; (iii) had full dentition except for third molars; (iv) had no history of orthodontic therapy; and (v) had no restorations involving a cusp. The occlusal contacts were recorded with occlusion foil in three lateral excursions: 1, 2 and 3 mm from the maximum intercuspation. Data were analyzed with chi-square test. Results. Most of working-side contact patterns were classified as group function (60%). Canine protection was rare (17%). Contact patterns other than canine protection and group function were found in 23% of the contact patterns on the right side. On the left side, group function was seen in 51%, canine protection in 21% and others patterns in 28% of the studied subjects. Conclusion. On laterotrusion, most subjects had group function on the working side but canine protection was rare.