“Occlusal” means, “pertaining to the contacting surfaces of opposing teeth.” When tooth surfaces are not in harmony between the upper and lower teeth, an “occlusal adjustment” may be necessary. That’s
because teeth that do not fit together properly can affect the rate of
progression of periodontal diseases or contribute to other oral health
problems. Perhaps your periodontist has
recommended an occlusal adjustment because periodontal diseases have
damaged your teeth’s supporting structures and caused them to shift – or
maybe you’ve recently had restorative work that has slightly changed
the way your teeth fit together. These and other
reasons – from genetics to teeth clenching or grinding – can require an
occlusal adjustment to help you achieve occlusal harmony and create a
bite that’s functional and healthy.
During
an occlusal adjustment, your periodontist may take a mold of your teeth
or ask you to bite down on a tape-like substance called “articulating
paper” to identify the areas of occlusal concern. Teeth with less than optimal contact will be reshaped. In addition, your periodontist might prescribe an “occlusal guard” or
“night guard” to be worn at certain times during the day or night to
minimize the effects of teeth grinding or other occlusal concerns. You
can generate 4 to 6 TIMES the normal bite force at night when you grind
your teeth than during the day