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What is Normal Occlusion?

"Normal occlusion" is a dental term that refers to the alignment and placement of the teeth within the jaw. Dentists have determined the ideal and normal placement of teeth, and a person whose teeth reach this ideal is considered to have normal occlusion.

  1. Definition

    • The word "occlude" means "to come together," so dental occlusion refers to the manner in which the top and bottom teeth come together when the jaw is closed. Normal occlusion is when all the teeth align properly, creating a normal bite for the individual.

    Identification

    • Dental professionals identify normal occlusion by visual observation of tooth placement and by dental casts that are created out of plaster or molded into plastic. Normal occlusion is the result of properly aligned teeth and the proper hinging of the jaw, so that the teeth come together properly.

    Benefits

    • According to the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, normal occlusion prevents dental problems, such as cross bites. It also eliminates the need for braces or any form of alignment tools and creates a healthy, straight smile.

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