What is the definition of premature contact on teeth?
Premature contact refers to the situation when one or more teeth hit each other before the rest, preventing the teeth from coming together evenly and properly. Often referred to as occlusal interference or prematurity, premature contact in teeth can affect both natural teeth and dental restorations, such as crowns, fillings, or veneers.
When teeth come into contact in a way that is not harmonious during biting, chewing, or other jaw activities, it can cause discomfort, impair dental function, and lead to various dental problems. Premature contacts can arise from several factors, including:
Tooth misalignment or malocclusion: This occurs when the teeth are not properly aligned, leading to irregular contact patterns and premature hits.
Uneven tooth eruption: If certain teeth erupt faster or slower than others, they may make premature contact with opposing teeth.
Wear or damage to teeth: Over time, teeth can wear down unevenly, leading to changes in contact patterns and premature contacts.
Dental procedures or restorations: Poorly done dental treatments, such as improperly placed fillings, crowns, or other restorations, can disrupt the normal contact between teeth and lead to premature contacts.
Bruxism: Excessive teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can wear down teeth and cause premature contacts.
These premature contacts can cause various symptoms and problems, including:
Pain or discomfort in the affected teeth
Difficulty or pain when chewing
Uneven wear of the teeth
Jaw pain or soreness
Headaches or migraines
Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint, or TMJ)
To diagnose premature contacts, dentists typically conduct thorough dental examinations, analyze the patient's bite, and use diagnostic tools like bitewing X-rays or articulating paper to identify the specific locations of premature contacts.
Once diagnosed, dentists have various options for treating premature contacts. Treatment options vary based on the cause of the problem and may include:
Simple adjustments: In some cases, minor modifications to the teeth, like reshaping or smoothing, can correct the premature contact.
Orthodontic treatment: If the premature contacts result from jaw misalignment or tooth malpositioning, orthodontic treatment may be recommended to realign the teeth and improve the bite.
Restorations: If premature contacts arise due to uneven wear or poorly done dental work, dentists may place restorations, such as fillings, crowns, or onlays, to restore proper tooth shape and contact points.
Occlusal adjustment or equilibration: This involves selective reshaping and smoothing of the teeth's contact surfaces to eliminate premature contacts and create a more balanced and harmonious bite.
In severe cases, where the premature contacts have led to extensive dental wear or jaw joint problems, more complex treatments like full-mouth rehabilitation or even TMJ surgery may be necessary.
The goal of treating premature contacts is to alleviate discomfort, improve dental function, and prevent further damage to the teeth and jaw. By diagnosing and treating the underlying causes, dentists can help restore proper dental alignment, function, and overall oral health.