Occlusal tooth pain. They will be designed to match your natural teeth as closely as possible in color and shape. Often times The signs and symptoms experienced by patients with occlusal trauma are mobility of teeth, temperomandibular joint pain, pain on mastication and periodontal disease. More technically, it is the relationship between the maxillary (upper) and mandibular (lower) teeth when they approach each other, as occurs during chewing or at rest. The term “occlusal” pertains to the chewing surfaces of your teeth. It also helps identify potential dental concerns through advanced imaging techniques, such as CBCT scans, which can reveal conditions like decay and bone loss. To present the results of a literature‐based expert consensus intended to promote better Causes of occlusal disease To further help understand how occlusal disease can occur, the following are some of the causes of this condition: Dental attrition Attrition is wear resulting from tooth-on-tooth contact. <br/> Management strategies are linked to the diagnosis - from topically applied desensitising pastes and resin bonding agents to direct restorations and possibly more advanced restorative procedures such as root canal Oct 1, 2016 · ICD 10 code for Primary occlusal trauma. The cause of the pain and mobility should be identified and eliminated. Ask your dentist if you need one for better oral health. To understand what an occlusal cavity is and the treatment options for it, it makes sense to have a basic overview of the inner workings of teeth. "Correcting occlusal issues not only enhances dental aesthetics but can also improve functional outcomes for patients suffering from TMD. 1 If we accept that statement, it would mean that OD is more destructive than caries and periodontal disease! Historically dentists are very good at diagnosing caries, and are getting better at diagnosing periodontal disease. Frequent headaches: Clenching or grinding due to occlusal issues can lead to tension headaches. For instance, a dentist may utilize adjustments in occlusion to decrease muscle tension and associated pain. Jan 8, 2025 · Occlusal adjustment is a crucial procedure for maintaining optimal bite health and preventing long-term oral issues. Due to […] Mar 1, 2025 · In addition, restorations or prosthetic appliances that interfere with or alter the direction of occlusal forces on the teeth may also induce acute trauma. Symptoms: Pain and Discomfort: Patients with occlusal disease may experience pain and discomfort in the jaw, neck, and even headaches due to the strain on the muscles and joints. What Is a Cavity? Overtime, this shift can cause a whole host of problems from TMJ pain, post restorative complications, headache, tooth sensitivity, recession, broken and loss of teeth and orofacial pain. Jun 13, 2025 · Occlusal adjustment, also known as bite adjustment, is a dental procedure that involves precisely modifying the biting surfaces of teeth to achieve proper alignment and even distribution of pressure when you bite down. Bruxsim is the involuntary habit of grinding of the teeth. Dental literature recognizes that occlusal interferences diminishes normal musculoskeletal movement and are harmful. This randomized control trial study was conducted at Outpatient Department of Operative Dentistry at Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU Aug 4, 2022 · Occlusal trauma is trauma to the periodontium from functional or parafunctional force’s causing damage to the teeth and its attachment apparatus by exceeding its adaptive and reparative capacities. Jan 28, 2015 · Occlusal disease is a destructive process that can result from a bite in which the teeth are not properly aligned. Find out how bite alignment affects oral health and ways to correct it. Bite adjustment, also known as occlusal adjustment, is a dental procedure that helps correct irregularities in the way teeth come together. This involves the reshaping of the teeth where the improper biting surfaces are located. Aug 1, 2025 · What is an occlusal adjustment, and why might your dentist recommend this procedure? If you've been experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or teeth sensitivity, your bite alignment could be the hidden culprit affecting your daily comfort. Oct 27, 2024 · An occlusal examination evaluates the alignment and contact between the teeth, which is vital for preventing issues like tooth wear and joint pain. Aug 15, 2023 · A bite adjustment, also known as “occlusal adjustment,” is an oral procedure that helps to modify the alignment of your teeth and jaw. The intervention was an occlusal reduction (removal of all occlusal contacts) compared to occlusal adjustment (maintenance of occlusal contacts). Explore how occlusal adjustment can relieve pain and enhance function. The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in bite force, teeth A 24-year-old man sought treatment at the Temporomandibular Disorder, Orofacial Pain, Oral Medicine and Dental Sleep Medicine Clinic at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. Dec 29, 2023 · In 1976, Marbach first described in the literature a clinical entity that he called “the phantom bite,” now known as “occlusal dysesthesia” (OD). Most patients suffering from OD are going through an unusually stressful period in their lives and have undergone dental therapy at the same time, resulting in a mental fixation on their teeth. These problems can cause pain and problems chewing. This assessment involved monitoring the electric tooth pain threshold (TPT) at multiple times before and after altering the occlusal contact. Repeated dental treatment will reinforce the patient's belief that the problem is primarily occlusal, thereby increasing his or her incentive for seeking additional dental treatment. This minimizes the effects of teeth grinding or clenching, allowing the jaw muscles to rest and reducing muscle tension, pain, and discomfort. The most common cause is when the cartilage slips out of place Jun 3, 2015 · Dr. Aug 1, 2009 · Occlusal disease (OD) is a far more destructive disease than most people realize. This could involve adjustments such as removing a Mar 31, 2020 · The biting or grinding surfaces of posterior teeth (premolars and molars) are referred to as occlusal surfaces. Dec 15, 2023 · An occlusal guard is a removable dental appliance that fits over the teeth in one arch to prevent tooth wear and damage from grinding or teeth clenching. The front and back teeth have protective functions that Jan 6, 2023 · Once the cause of occlusal-related disorders is identified, occlusal splint therapy is useful for the diagnosis and management of various masticatory system disorders. The alignment of teeth plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health, preventing discomfort, and ensuring efficient chewing. There can be many causes of occlusal disease, but often can be traced to an unbalanced bite, crooked teeth, or involuntary teeth grinding/clenching. Find the different types and benefits of occlusal splints. Occlusal splints are routinely used in dental offices to diagnose and treat abnormalities of the masticatory system. Get free rules, notes, crosswalks, synonyms, history for ICD-10 code K08. Dental crown pain – Can result from improper fit or bite misalignment; adjustments or occlusal splints may be needed. This could have been determined from proper occlusal analysis. [2] Occlusal adjustment involves repositioning the mandible to a centric occlusion using orthodontic appliances. One of the most effective treatments is a custom-fit night guard, also called an occlusal guard. Occlusal guards can also help alleviate the symptoms associated with bruxism including jaw pain, head and neck muscle pain, tooth wear and fracture, tooth sensitivity, and headaches. By following a thorough step-by-step process—beginning with diagnosis and followed by targeted adjustments—patients can achieve a balanced bite that improves comfort, protects the teeth, and promotes overall oral health. The diagnosis and management of patients suffering from occlusal dysesthesia (OD) remain a major challenge for dental practitioners and affected patients. This article Relieve jaw pain and renew oral health with TMJ therapy in Houston, TX, using custom occlusal splints from the dentist in Houston and the dentistry team at Downtown Houston Dental. This scoping review’s purpose was to map the existing literature on occlusal abnormalities and their potential role in the development and progression of TMD. Diagnosis of these problems using precise technology can aid the dentist in correcting Historical Development The use of occlusal appliances dates back many years, with evidence found in ancient civilizations who understood the importance of dental health. Your dentist may recommend a splint to treat your TMJ. A thorough evaluation of the patient, including comprehensive medical, psychological and dental assessments, is needed to identify PBS. Habits: Occlusal prematurities can lead to the habit pattrn which is injurious to periodontium. But OTC night guards can be very risky. It is sometimes referred to as a splint. Nov 14, 2023 · Occlusal adjustment, also known as bite adjustment, is a procedure to correct how the teeth contact each other and helps with overall dental health. Sep 10, 2024 · Discover how occlusal adjustment can relieve jaw pain and headaches by improving bite alignment and reducing TMJ stress. Nov 21, 2019 · If you suffer from myofascial pain syndrome caused by occlusal trauma, it is imperative to seek treatment, since unmitigated occlusal trauma can result in mobile teeth, pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, necrosis (premature death of living tissue cells), and bone resorption. Occlusal trauma occurs as a result of reduced ability of the tissues to resist the occlusal forces most likely as a result of masticatory Mar 23, 2012 · Others, through their own experience and postgraduate study, realise that misdirected or excessive occlusal forces can be damaging to restorations, teeth/implants and periodontium. Patients must be informed of potential side efects prior to initiating treatment and informed consent must be secured. An occlusal splint or orthotic device is a specially designed mouthguard for people who grind their teeth, have a history of pain & dysfunction associated with their bite or TMJ. ABSTRACT Pain management in endodontics is of paramount importance for the clinicians. This is also called a periodontally-uninvolved tooth. Unlike generic mouthguards used in sports, occlusal guards are custom-made to fit a patient’s bite precisely, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness. It’s a fundamental concept in dentistry that affects everything from your bite to your overall oral health. Long-term or severe bruxism can lead to pain, cracked or broken teeth, loss of tooth enamel, and in severe cases – loss of Jun 21, 2018 · Objectives This narrative review determines the effects of occlusal trauma and excessive occlusal forces on the periodontium, including the initiation and progression of periodontitis, abfraction, a Dec 22, 2024 · Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for traumatic dental occlusion, a condition that can lead to pain, discomfort, and other oral health problems. In a trial with 308 patients, the effect of occlusal reduction on post-treatment pain in mandibular posterior teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis was assessed. They may treat individuals with Mar 20, 2025 · Learn about dental occlusion, its types, causes, and treatments. If you’re harming the occlusal/chewing surfaces of your teeth through clenching or grinding, your dentist might suggest an occlusal guard. Jose-Luis Ruiz provides a guide to assessing the signs and symptoms of occlusal disease, and offers positive steps toward giving necessary treatment. Jun 20, 2024 · Without proper care, irregularities or damage to the occlusal surface can lead to problems ranging from tooth sensitivity to chronic jaw pain, and even difficulty chewing. Learn about the procedure, benefits, and how it addresses related conditions such as TMJ disorders, bruxism, and tooth sensitivity. Apr 20, 2025 · The D7881 dental code refers to the fabrication and placement of an occlusal guard, a dental appliance designed to protect teeth from damage caused by grinding (bruxism), clenching, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. It can also lead to physical changes in the appearance of your smile. Left untreated, bruxism can lead to cracked enamel, jaw pain, and even long-term TMJ issues. You chew a lot in your lifetime, and eventually, the enamel starts to wear down. Apart from wear, it is the most recognizable and obvious symptom of occlusal disease. In cases of primary occlusal trauma, the cause of the mobility was the excessive force being applied to a tooth with a normal attachment apparatus. This alteration was pr … Occlusal Cavity Treatment in Markham: Protect Your Smile with Expert Care Treatment Options for Occlusal Disease Occlusal disease is when there is abnormal wear and tear on the teeth due to a misalignment of the bite. Dr. Abstract Introduction: Pain management after root canal treatment is a very important issue in clinical practice. Muscle pain Tooth movement Tooth loss Injuries to the teeth Tooth wear Tooth sensitivity If you and your dentist determine that your occlusion is contributing to and/or causing dental problems – whether pain, chipped or broken teeth, failing restorations or other consequences of a bad bite – a treatment plan may be developed to adjust your Apr 11, 2025 · Dental procedures are categorized under specific codes to ensure uniformity in billing and treatment documentation. Jun 18, 2021 · The signs and symptoms experienced by patients with occlusal trauma are mobility of teeth, temperomandibular joint pain, pain on mastication and periodontal disease. AI generated definition based on Periodontology – Occlusal Trauma Occlusal trauma occurs when the teeth are damaged from extreme amounts of force and no longer properly align. Feb 8, 2025 · Symptoms of Trauma from Occlusion Thermal sensitivity: Trauma from occlusion leads to pressure on venous return which causes venous hyperplasia and increase blood pressure in pulp and pain. Constructed in a dental lab, splints are typically made of hard acrylic resin and molded from an impression of your teeth. Sep 7, 2025 · Tooth Loss: The loss of one or more teeth can lead to a shift in the alignment of the remaining teeth, causing occlusal issues. Protecting Teeth and Restorations An added benefit of using an occlusal splint is protection for the teeth and any existing dental restorations, such as crowns or fillings. What treatment options are available for traumatic occlusion? Suffering from tooth pain? Explore the causes and treatments of primary and secondary occlusal trauma. Learn how they alleviate jaw pain, prevent teeth grinding, and improve your oral health. Many times, it can go undiagnosed and is often overlooked because tooth wear occurs naturally as part of the aging process. Jaw pain or discomfort: Patients may experience persistent pain in the jaw muscles or joints, often related to bite misalignment. Discover how to identify issues related to bite alignment for optimal dental health. Clinical Implications Orofacial pain, temporomandibular disorder and occlusal therapeutic management are integral parts of contemporary interdisciplinary (orthodontic, prosthodontic, restorative) dental care, often requiring a multidisciplinary team approach for the bene t of all stakeholders. RECOMMENDATIONS Prior to initiating OAT, the treating dentist should document pretreatment tooth positions with baseline records including dental casts, intraoral photographs, and a record of occlusal relationships. Learn more about occlusal disease. This will repair the bite, ensuring normal chewing and preventing a number of different dental disorders from occurring. When there is trauma, disease or dental treatment, it can alter the occlusion through a modification of the biting surface on the OCCLUSAL SPLINT FOR TMJ PAIN Pain in one or both of your jaw joints? Earaches? Pain when you chew? Stiffness and pain in your face and neck? If you suffer from TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), you already know how painful it can be when your temporomandibular joint gets out of line. When teeth are pushed together scratching or squeaky sound is heared. Dental X-rays and digital occlusal analysis provide insights into structural impacts, revealing changes in bone density and occlusal contacts. Occlusal instability is a common cause for trauma from occlusion, resulting in numerous complications. Clinical picture showing lingual and occlusal surfaces (Black arrows= Occlusal surfaces) Dec 10, 2011 · An occlusal splint, also known as a bite guard, is a removable dental device. Let’s delve into this topic to better understand its importance to dentistry. When trauma, disease or dental treatment alters occlusion by changing the biting surface of any of the teeth, the teeth will come together The population consisted of patients with teeth submitted to endodontic treatment. Since the age of 14 years, he had undergone orthodontic treatment twice and multiple occlusal equilibration Dec 17, 2024 · Sleeping with an occlusal splint, or night guard, is recommended to help with clenching, grinding and even sleep apnea. Discover everything about occlusal splints, including their benefits, types, and how an occlusal splint helps with bruxism and TMD. According to GNM occlusal adjustment protocols these issues most likely are related to your bite and occlusal prematurities that are triggering and contributing to these areas of pain and tenderness. THE CRACKED TOOTH DILEMMA With today’s advances in dentistry, the older we get – the longer we are keeping our teeth! But, no matter how healthy you keep your teeth or how many times a day you floss and brush, teeth are subjected to many occlusal forces and may weaken with age and use. Although OD is such Occlusal trauma is the damage to teeth when an excessive force is acted upon them and they do not align properly. Having a patient point to the tooth that hurts is often misleading, due to the complex nature of the innervation in the head and neck. The mobile tooth or teeth should soon stop demonstrating any mobility. Static occlusion refers to contact between teeth when the jaw is closed and stationary, while dynamic occlusion refers to occlusal contacts made when the Mar 12, 2024 · Can occlusion impact the need for dental restorations or orthodontic treatment? When it comes to dental health, the alignment of your teeth and the way your upper and lower teeth fit together, known as occlusion, can indeed impact the need for various dental treatments such as restorations or orthodontic procedures. Occlusal equilibration is the process of carefully reshaping teeth to correct the alignment of your bite. The result of these forces often results in cracks and fractures that are not always visible. It is commonly used to treat temporomandibular disorders, which are characterized by problems with the mechanisms of your jaw. It is common for a tooth to refer pain to another tooth. After an occlusal adjustment, all of your teeth should make contact at once, reducing stress on specific mouth areas. Explore research, diagnostics, and therapies for dental and medical professionals. They perceive clinically unremarkable occlusal Critical issues in the field of occlusion related to orofacial pain are reviewed: occlusal disharmonies, coincidence of retruded-intercuspal contact positions, non-working side interferences, maximum intercuspation of teeth, occlusal adjustment, and occlusal appliances. Sep 18, 2023 · Loose teeth Increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages When you schedule an appointment with one of our talented oral surgeons, we will complete a comprehensive oral exam to evaluate your symptoms and determine if you suffer from occlusal disease or another oral health condition. Jul 16, 2012 · In order to differentiate which symptoms are odontogenic, the pain needs to be reproduced in the offending tooth. Peter Dawson considers OD the main cause of tooth loss. Acute trauma results in tooth pain, sensitivity to percussion, and increased tooth mobility. [1] When the jaws close, for instance during chewing or at rest, the relationship between the opposing teeth is referred to as occlusion. Sep 21, 2025 · Do you wake up with headaches or jaw pain? Have you noticed chipped or worn teeth? You may be experiencing bruxism, also known as nighttime teeth grinding. These occlusal interferences and bite discrepancies are treatable with minimally invasive dentistry. Many people suffer from TMD. The first known descriptions closely relate to the management of dental pain and issues resulting from misaligned teeth. Abstract: Treatment of common myogenic oriented orofacial pain in dentistry using occlusal orthotics has been shown to be effective in reducing masticatory muscle discomfort and dysfunction. You will be expected to wear it at the recommended times Sep 22, 2021 · Occlusal disease (commonly referred to as OD) refers to the destructive process that misaligned teeth undergo. One such code, D7962, refers to occlusal adjustments —a procedure designed to correct bite irregularities and improve tooth alignment. " Technological Advancements in This case report aims to describe the management of mandibular anterior teeth subjected to occlusal trauma. Occlusal disease is the destructive process that results from a bite in which the teeth are not properly aligned. A thorough understanding of occlusion also enables practitioners to predict how modifications may impact TMD symptoms. Misaligned bites (malocclusion) can lead to jaw pain, tooth wear, and even headaches, making occlusal adjustments a crucial aspect of May 30, 2024 · Learn about occlusal disease, its causes, symptoms, & treatment options. It encompasses the occlusal surfaces of teeth, which refer to the chewing surfaces, the occlusal plane, which is an imaginary line connecting the cusp tips of the maxillary and mandibular posterior teeth, the occlusal contacts, which involve the points of contact between opposing Aug 4, 2022 · Occlusal equilibration is a therapy that is used when the cause of trauma is due to occlusal instability. Apr 24, 2025 · Background and Objectives: The occlusal–temporomandibular disorder (TMD) relation is a contentious issue in dentistry to date. Final Words Hence, understanding the importance of occlusal adjustments in fillings is vital for your dental health. Find a Prosthodontist with us today to see if occlusal splints are right for your needs. The objective of the present study was to compare pain reduction after instrumentation, in teeth with occlusal reduction and without occlusal reduction. Materials and Methods: A search in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, Lippincott, Medknow, and Jul 7, 2021 · Previous studies have analyzed pain after endodontic treatment followed by an occlusal reduction (removal of all occlusal contacts) or occlusal adjustment (maintenance of normal occlusal contacts). Mar 12, 2024 · Misaligned teeth can cause uneven wear on the occlusal surface, difficulty chewing, and contribute to jaw pain and muscle tension. Develop a working diagnosis- Evaluate all of the symptoms against your knowledge of the pathophysiology of orofacial pain to identify the most likely Hypothesis problem in the most likely tooth/teeth. There are different occlusal splints, each of which can address various conditions. It is the dentist's responsibility to assess all factors that may cause or contribute to the problem and avoid treating pain of unknown origin. A splint is a removable dental appliance that covers several or all of the upper or lower teeth. If you experience symptoms of bite misalignment, it is Jun 28, 2018 · Orofacial pain, temporomandibular disorder and occlusal therapeutic management are integral parts of contemporary interdisciplinary (orthodontic, prosthodontic, restorative) dental care, often requiring a multidisciplinary team approach for the benefit of all stakeholders. An occlusal adjustment is a dental procedure to correct the malocclusion. This is especially true when The acute dental pain management guidelines present recommendations on managing acute oral pain in children, adolescents and adults. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of occlusal reduction on postoperative pain in teeth with irreversible pulpitis and tenderness to percussion. 81. Discover the importance of occlusal adjustment for achieving optimal oral health. Some dentists and patients may naturally become frustrated when these areas of pain are not improving over time. Oct 1, 2016 · ICD 10 code for Other specified disorders of teeth and supporting structures. 89. Occlusal splints may have side effects and Feb 21, 2025 · Occlusal guards are custom-made to protect your teeth and restorations from grinding damage. fi Occlusal adjustment is selective adjustment of the occlusal surface of teeth by grinding the enamel so that the maxillary and mandibular teeth fit together (the intercuspal position) harmoniously, eliminating centric interferences. He requested an occlusal adjustment to treat his longtime occlusal complaints and his more recent jaw pain. Jul 12, 2025 · Dentists assess tooth mobility, perform palpation and percussion tests, and may use the fremitus test to identify occlusal trauma signs. After the splint is made, the dentist will fit and readjust it. Feb 2, 2025 · The term "occlusal" in dentistry denotes specific anatomical structures and relationships within the oral cavity. It often leads to interference which reflexively shifts or slides the jaw forward on one or Relieve jaw pain and renew function with TMJ therapy in Fort Worth, TX, using occlusal splints crafted by our skilled dentist in Fort Worth and the dental team at Drennan Family Dentistry. Learn more in this article. Occlusal disease can result in toothaches, jaw pain, and even frequent headaches. Early diagnosis, proper treatment plan and correction of malocclusion can lead to a successful outcome. Occlusal trauma is defined as a dental condition characterized by the adverse effects of occlusion on the teeth, resulting in symptoms such as severe attrition, exposed dentin, tooth sensitivity, and mobility. Dental occlusion refers to how your upper and lower teeth come together when you close your mouth. To address the effects of bruxism on the occlusal surface, there are treatment options available. When the bite is not properly aligned, it can lead to numerous dental and health problems, including jaw pain, tooth wear The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of an experimentally induced light premature occlusal contact on tooth sensation. Proper adjustments ensure that your bite functions harmoniously, minimizing discomfort and preventing future issues such as tooth wear or jaw pain. The evaluated outcome was postoperative pain, and only clinical trials were included in the study design. All of these restorative treatments are custom-made to fit your mouth. Previously, bite force, occlusal contact and pain were investigated in orthodontic patients with moderate-to-severe malocclusion, but not in patients with minor malocclusion. For cases involving painful biting, teeth that don’t sit right, or an uneven jaw, bite adjustment can be quite helpful. In a balanced bite the muscles, jaw joint ,and teeth function in harmony. Consider prescription monitoring programs to track opioid dispensing. When the jaws are closed, while at rest or chewing, the relationship between the opposing teeth is called an occlusion. Fortunately, a number of treatment options are available. Jun 28, 2025 · Swift action alleviates discomfort and promotes the longevity of your dental work. Occlusal splints are designed to stabilize your jaw in order to restore proper jaw movement. Occlusion, in a dental context, means simply the contact between teeth. Aug 22, 2022 · Fortunately, occlusal equilibration, made possible by modern technology, offers a more straightforward approach. Dec 15, 2023 · Pain associated with occlusal problems is a powerful motivator for treatment. Common Dental Pain Scenarios and Management Pain after dental filling – Usually mild, can be managed with acetaminophen, NSAIDs or topical anesthetics. Many have called occlusal disease a “silent oral The patient described in the article may have an arc-of-closure interference on his anterior teeth from orthodontics or overreduction of posterior teeth. Oct 4, 2021 · Occlusal reduction should prevent postoperative pain in those patients whose teeth initially exhibit pulp vitality, percussion sensitivity, preoperative pain, and/or the absence of a periradicular radiolucency. It can be classified as primary or secondary, with secondary trauma often leading to further dental issues like tooth drifting and marked mobility. Occlusal disease is a major contributor to tooth loss and can have a significant impact on your overall oral health. Dental wear: Signs include chipped or flattened teeth, indicating excessive wear often resulting from an improper bite. May 20, 2019 · Consideration of occlusal factors should not be overlooked as these may contribute to symptoms arising from a cracked tooth. . But still keep an open mind! Test Diagnosis Confirm or disprove your hypothesis by doing a clinical exam and tests: Leading journal in Oral & Facial Pain, TMDs, and Headache.